No heartbreak this time as PH soft tennis team ends Asian Games medal drought - GMA Network

Bien Zoleta has seen the lows of Philippine soft tennis, and for the first time at the Asian Games, she is experiencing the highs.

Zoleta helped steer the country to its first-ever Asian Games medal after the team reached the semifinals of the team event, assuring the Philippines of at least a bronze medal.

While it is a huge feat in itself, Zoleta stressed that it has been a long journey for her and the team.

“Well, since Philippine Soft Tennis made its Asian Games debut in 1994, this is the first time we’ve ever reached the podium or won a medal at the Asian Games,” Zoleta told GMA News a mix of English and Filipino.

“So, I’m really happy to have been part of it and to be a member of the team that won an Asian Games medal.”

Zoleta has been representing the Philippines in international soft tennis, experiencing the heartbreaks and struggles that come with competing in a lesser-known sport.

That is why the Asian Games medal means so much to her.

“In my four previous Asian Games appearances, I always made it to the quarterfinals. I’ve experienced a lot of heartbreak and shed a lot of tears. So, in my fifth time, we finally made it to the semifinals,” she added.

“So, I’m extremely happy. This is a very historic win for the Philippine Soft Tennis community because this was the only major medal that Philippine Soft Tennis had yet to win.”

“I told myself that I’ve completed my journey as a national athlete because I’ve competed in all four major events in soft tennis.”

But the Philippines isn’t settling for bronze, as the squad looks to continue its run and vie for a potential gold medal.

The Philippines will face Japan in the semifinals on Sunday.

“So, we believe that the Lord was with us during our game yesterday,” she added.

“So, thank you very much. I hope He continues to support us and guide us, especially tomorrow in the semifinals. I believe that nothing is impossible, even though we are facing a powerhouse and champion team in Japan.”