• Rain delays at the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open pushed matches back several hours.
  • Donna Vekic stayed relaxed with a pedicure and watching the Australian Open before her match.
  • Vekic beat Kyoka Okamura 6-2, 6-2 to reach the Round of 16 and won over Filipino fans.

H2: Rain delay at Rizal Memorial

Rain forced a late start to Tuesday’s schedule at the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. Matches planned for 2 p.m. did not begin until around 5 p.m. when the showers stopped.

H3: How Vekic stayed calm before her match

Instead of letting the delay break her rhythm, Croatian star Donna Vekic kept things low-key. She watched some Australian Open coverage, chatted with friends, ate, and even got a pedicure while waiting for the courts to dry.

“It was a long wait today, but I was watching some tennis in Australia. I had a pedicure, I was eating some food and talking to some friends, trying to stay relaxed but focused,” Vekic said.

Short breaks and small routines like these helped her preserve focus and energy for the afternoon session.

H3: Decisive win over Okamura

When play finally resumed, Vekic delivered a confident performance. She defeated Japan’s Kyoka Okamura in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, to advance to the Round of 16.

Vekic’s aggressive baseline game and calm temperament during the rain-delayed schedule were on display. She converted chances, controlled rallies, and kept a steady tempo to close out the match without letting the unusual day affect her play.

H2: Growing fan support in the Philippines

The 29-year-old has been embraced by Filipino spectators who have dubbed her an “adopted Filipina.” She returned the support with smiles and acknowledgement every time her shots drew cheers.

“It’s very nice. I feel very welcomed, and hopefully I can stay here the whole week because it’s really a big pleasure playing in front of them,” Vekic said after the match.

Fans cheered throughout her win, energizing the court and reinforcing the tournament’s lively atmosphere.

H4: What’s next for Vekic

With the victory, Vekic moves on to the Round of 16 and aims to continue her run in the WTA 125 event. She told reporters she hoped to remain in Manila for the rest of the week and make the most of competing in front of supportive crowds.

Short, composed preparation and a clear game plan helped Vekic turn a rainy, uncertain afternoon into a smooth and decisive win. The result keeps her on track in the Philippine Women’s Open as the tournament progresses.

Image Referance: https://www.abs-cbn.com/sports/othersports/2026/1/28/here-s-how-adopted-filipina-donna-vekic-spent-her-afternoon-while-waiting-for-pwo-match-0020