Tennielle Madis Advances to Philta National Women's Open Finals
Top seed Tennielle Madis delivered a commanding performance to defeat comebacking Marian Capadocia, 6-4, 6-4, in the semifinal round of the Philta National Women's Open on Friday, April 17, 2026. The match took place at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Malate, Manila, where Madis displayed superior mobility and vertical range, leaping high for crushing overhead smashes to secure her spot in the finals.
Final Showdown Set with Stefi Marithe Aludo
The 18-year-old Madis, a native of M'lang, Cotabato, will now face second pick Stefi Marithe Aludo in the championship match on Saturday. Aludo earned her place by overpowering No. 16 Lourainne Jallorina with a decisive 6-2, 6-1 victory. This final pairing highlights the rising stars of Philippine tennis, both of whom have shown exceptional skill throughout the tournament.
Madis's Impressive Track Record
Madis has been on a remarkable winning streak, having dominated recent tournaments such as the PCA Open, Gentry Open, and Olivarez Open. Additionally, she bagged a doubles bronze medal with Aludo at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games last year, underscoring her versatility and competitive edge. Her consistent performances have solidified her reputation as a top contender in the sport.
Capadocia's Comeback Journey
On the other hand, Marian Capadocia made a notable return to competitive tennis after a one-year break. She fought her way to the semifinals by ousting higher-seeded players, including No. 4 Kaye Ann Emana and No. 6 Elizabeth Abarquez, in the Group A event supported by Tecnifibre and the Philippine Sports Commission. Reflecting on her performance, Capadocia said, "I can say I played well today. After giving birth, I didn't expect to perform like this with just three weeks of preparation." She also expressed some disappointment, noting, "I just couldn't fully adjust to the age-group style of play, so I felt a bit disappointed. But overall, I'm still proud and grateful for how I performed." Capadocia, a two-time team bronze medalist in the SEA Games, captured her 10th singles crown at the 2024 PCA Open.
Coaching Insights and Doubles Action
Madis, Aludo, and Jallorina are all members of the Philippine Tennis Academy (PTA), founded by long-time sports patron Romy Chan. PTA head coach Bobie Angelo, a many-time Davis Cupper and Southeast Asian Games multi-medalist, commented on Madis's performance, saying, "Tenny got the jitters at the start of the first set, but overall, it was a good match." In the doubles event, Madis and Aludo continued their strong partnership, clobbering Jallorina and Avegail Ansay, 6-0, 6-1, to set up a semifinal duel with Capadocia and Yuki Madrio, who won over Juliana Carvajal and Coleen Carvajal, 6-3, 6-0. Meanwhile, siblings Kaye Anne and Mica Emana, the No. 2 seeds, trounced Rovie Baulite and Judy Ann Padilla, 6-4, 6-1, advancing to face Annika Diwa and Mekaela Vicencio, who outplayed Angeline Alcala and Joanna Pena, 6-4, 6-3.
