Cover From grand slams to Olympic dreams: Filipina athletes to watch (Photo: stylised by author)
From grand slams to Olympic dreams: Filipina athletes to watch (Photo: stylised by author)
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From tennis courts to gymnasiums, a new wave of young Filipina athletes is breaking barriers, rewriting history, and taking their sport to international stages. Here are rising stars to keep an eye on
In the Philippines, a new generation of women athletes is shaping the future of sports. With remarkable achievements already under their belts and a passion that refuses to be confined by borders, these young Filipinas are bringing pride to the nation and inspiring future generations. Their journeys are as much about talent as they are about perseverance, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence. As their names begin to echo across global arenas, their stories of resilience and ambition are only beginning.
These athletes embody the spirit of today’s Filipina—bold, talented, and unafraid to take on the world. Learn more about them below.
More from Tatler: Rising tennis star Alex Eala takes us through her life, career, and dreams
Alexandra “Alex” Eala
At just 19 years old, Alex Eala has already achieved what many tennis players only dream of: competing in all four Grand Slam tournaments. Her notable performances on international courts, including Wimbledon, have made her a trailblazer in the Philippines’ tennis scene. Eala’s journey is deeply intertwined with family, as her grandfather was her first coach, shaping her discipline and love for the sport from an early age. As she continues to rise, Eala is not just playing for herself but for an entire nation, ushering in a new era for Philippine tennis.
Read more about Alex Eala here.
Samantha “Sam” Catantan
For the first time since 1992, the Philippines had a female fencer at the Olympics, thanks to Sam Catantan. The 2024 Paris Olympics marked a milestone in Philippine fencing, as Catantan secured her spot by winning the women’s foil at the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifier. With her unwavering determination and strong faith, she has risen to the challenge, representing her country on the global stage. Her success isn’t just an individual achievement but a victory for Filipino athletes everywhere.
Read more about Sam Catantan here.
Maxine Esteban
From ice skating to fencing, Maxine Esteban’s sports journey has been defined by resilience and adaptability. After switching her dominant hand due to an injury, Esteban didn’t just return to fencing—she excelled, turning what many would consider a setback into an opportunity to improve. The Filipina-Ivorian athlete’s story is one of reinvention, proving that with passion and determination, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. Her grace and strength on the fencing strip are matched only by her mental fortitude.
Read more about Maxine Esteban here.
Aleah Finnegan
Aleah Finnegan’s rise in gymnastics is nothing short of extraordinary. Representing the Philippines on the world stage, she has already earned multiple medals at the Southeast Asian Games and competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Balancing elite athletics with university life, Finnegan’s journey reflects the power of ambition and the dedication it takes to reach the top. Whether she’s flipping through the air or sharing her love for music and vlogging, Finnegan proves that a well-rounded athlete is a force to be reckoned with.
Read more about Aleah Finnegan here.
Bianca Bustamante
Bianca Bustamante made history in 2022 as the first Filipino racing driver to compete in the W Series, the premier women’s motorsport event. Her ascent has been rapid and inspiring, as she continues to prove herself on the international stage. Currently racing with McLaren and looking toward the 2024 F1 Academy season, Bustamante is now gearing up for her 2025 debut in the GB3 Championship with Elite Motorsport. Her progression from kart racing at age five to joining one of the leading junior teams, Prema Racing, is a testament to her determination and skill. As she moves forward, Bustamante is breaking new ground for Filipino women in motorsport and continues to chase her dream of reaching Formula 3.
Read more about Bianca Bustamante here.
Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is the assistant digital editor of Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
