In an electrifying display of skill and tenacity, Leylah Fernandez triumphed over world No. 5 and recent French Open champion Mirra Andreeva, winning 6-1, 6-4 at Toronto’s Sobeys Stadium during the National Bank Open on Friday. This remarkable performance propels the Canadian tennis star into the round of 16, where she is set to face Naomi Osaka.
A Celebration of Canadian Tennis
Fernandez, the last Canadian player remaining in the tournament, showcased her talent while enjoying a celebratory ice cream bar at her post-match press conference. The 23-year-old from Laval, Quebec, who currently holds the No. 34 ranking globally, expressed her joy at competing on home soil. “There’s actually so much motivation this week, not only because I’m playing here in Canada, but also because the crowd has just been super amazing,” she noted. The warm support from her friends, family, and fans has added to the excitement, making this tournament a special experience for her.
Despite her success, Fernandez did voice a hint of disappointment at not being scheduled for an evening match, which she relished during her previous outing. “I was a little bit upset because, of course, I love to play in the evening, especially here in Canada,” she said. However, she appreciated the communication from organisers about her match time and managed to prepare mentally for the afternoon bout.
An Impressive Path to Victory
Fernandez’s journey in Toronto has been noteworthy. After receiving a bye into the second round, she convincingly defeated Mexico’s Renata Zarazua with a score of 6-2, 6-2. Her match against Andreeva marked a significant highlight in her career, representing her first victory over a top-10 player since July 2025, when she defeated Jessica Pegula at the DC Open.
Against the 19-year-old Andreeva, Fernandez displayed efficient and aggressive play, capitalising on her opponent’s unforced errors. Although Andreeva managed to break back when trailing 5-2 in the second set, Fernandez maintained her composure, serving out the match in a tidy 80 minutes.
Community and Cultural Connections
Fernandez’s success has resonated particularly with the Filipino community in Toronto, who have rallied around her and fellow Filipino player Alex Eala. Eala, a rising star on the WTA Tour, has also drawn large crowds, showcasing the growing influence of Filipino athletes in tennis. Eala was set to compete against American Caty McNally in the evening session, further energising local supporters.
Fernandez’s triumph is especially poignant as it arrives in a tournament where other Canadian players, including former champion Bianca Andreescu, have faced early exits. Injuries have also plagued the men’s ATP players in Montreal, making Fernandez’s advancement even more significant.
New Coaching Dynamics
In her pursuit of excellence, Fernandez has recently expanded her coaching team by adding Eric Hechtman alongside her father, Jorge Fernandez. This strategic move aims to enhance her performance without altering her natural playing style. “I would say it’s a little too soon to tell, but what I do like about his coaching is that he’s working really well with my dad,” she explained. She appreciates Hechtman’s approach, which focuses on building her confidence, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Why it Matters
Fernandez’s recent victory not only highlights her resilience and skill on the court but also serves as a beacon of hope for Canadian tennis. Her success in the National Bank Open is a reminder of the potential that exists within Canadian athletes, particularly in the context of increasing diversity in sports. As she continues her journey through the tournament, the eyes of a nation will be on her, eager to witness the next chapter in her promising career.
