Colombian tennis player Camila Osorio and Filipina star Alex Eala at the Philippine Women's Open. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News
MANILA — Colombian tennis player Camila Osorio had nothing but kind words for hometown hero Alex Eala on Thursday night.
Osorio, the World No. 84, tipped her hat to the 49th-ranked player, whom she ousted in the quarterfinals, 6-4, 6-4, in the inaugural WTA 125 Philippine Women's Open at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.
"I don't know if I'd call it satisfaction. I think it's a great match and a good win for me, obviously. As I said, she's a great competitor," said Osorio, referring to Eala.
"She's an amazing player. She's done unreal the past year and this year. She's done great things in tennis so obviously it's a big win for me," she added.
"I know her from the tour and she's one of the most lovely girls. I know that for sure. I think most of her family is very nice and that's why you can tell why she's so nice. The way they raise her, you can tell she's a very kind person and bubbly and she's always smiling."
Osorio found a similarity in playing in Colombia and in Manila — the ever-energetic crowd.
READ: Alex Eala bows out of PWO after gritty stand vs Colombian opponent
"I love to play back home. I love to play in Colombia because the energy is crazy. I just really enjoy it," said Osorio.
"That's why I think it's very similar to this. That's why I feel it's very nice to see you guys support Alex. I hope I can also go back to Colombia and play in front of my people because I enjoy it."
She will be facing Argentina's Solana Sierra in the semifinals for a chance to enter the grand final.