MANILA, Philippines — Struggling to fight off her tears, Alex Eala still flashed a smile as she received her Lexus Eastbourne Open runner-up trophy after a heartbreaking loss to Australia’s rising star Maya Joint in a grueling final.

It was a painful result for Eala, who failed to capture her first Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) title despite holding four championship points in a 4-6, 6-1, 6(10)-7 setback Saturday night (Manila time).

READ: Alex Eala suffers heartbreak at Eastbourne Open final vs Maya Joint

The 20-year-old Eala, however, still held her head up high after becoming the first Filipino to enter the WTA final.

“This is my first WTA final. It’s a big deal for me and you know, for my country too. It’s historic. Because this is the first time that any Filipina has done it,” said Eala.

Eala remained gracious in defeat, commending the 19-year-old and world No. 51 Joint after their epic duel.

“I want to congratulate Maya for a great match and a great tournament. Yeah, I think, we did really well and I think, you know, if I was to lose to anyone, I think it would definitely be you. So congratulations,” she said.

Eala hopes to move on quickly as she sets her sights on her Wimbledon main draw debut on Tuesday against defending champion Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic.

READ: Alex Eala faces defending champion in Wimbledon main draw debut

“It’s been a crazy year so I’ll remember this week and this moment forever,” Eala said.

“I guess that’s also why I’m so emotional but you know, this is the first. I’ll work hard to do more. Wimbledon’s next week so, hopefully, I forget about this match soon enough.”

It was still a great run for the Rafa Nadal Academy graduate after making her first finals this year and maiden championship game on grass.

Eala reached the title round despite being a qualifier at the WTA 250 tournament.

The Philippines’ pride will be making her second women’s Grand Slam appearance this year after a first-round exit in the French Open last May.