BANGKOK — Team Philippines survived a grueling opening day to secure a 2-1 victory over Vietnam in the women’s team event at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, guaranteeing themselves a bronze medal at the National Tennis Development Center in Nonthaburi on Wednesday, December 10.

After Alexa Milliam fell narrowly to Nguyen Savanna Ly, 2-6, 6-4, 6(3)-7, the Philippines needed resilience and composure to turn the tide.

Shaira Rivera led the comeback with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 win over Thuy Thanh Truc Tran, forcing a decisive doubles match against the Vietnamese pair.

Rivera and Milliam deliver in doubles

Despite fatigue from their singles matches, Milliam and Rivera battled through a tense three-setter against Van Nguyen Chanelle and Nguyen Ly, ultimately triumphing 7-5, 3-6, 6-2 to secure the team bronze. The duo’s experience proved crucial in handling the pressure and clinching the medal.

Head coach Denise Dy credited the team’s veterans, including Rivera and Alex Eala, for guiding younger players like Milliam. “They’ve been great mentors, great role models — on and off the court. That kind of leadership has been key to our success,” Dy said.

The Philippines will now aim for gold in the semifinals on Friday against a yet-to-be-determined opponent at the same Nonthaburi venue.