In an impressive display of skill and resilience, Canadian tennis sensation Leylah Fernandez triumphed over the formidable Mirra Andreeva, the reigning French Open champion, with a score of 6-1, 6-4 at the National Bank Open in Toronto on Friday. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for the 23-year-old from Laval, Quebec, but also keeps her hopes alive as the last Canadian player in the tournament.
A Sweet Celebration
After her victorious match, Fernandez made her way to the post-match press conference, relishing a celebratory ice cream bar. The atmosphere was jubilant as she reflected on her performance against the world No. 5, who has been a significant force in women’s tennis. Ranked 34th globally, Fernandez’s win is her most noteworthy in recent times and showcases her potential to reclaim her place among the elite.
“I have so much motivation this week, not only because I’m playing in Canada, but also because the crowd has been incredibly supportive,” Fernandez stated. “Playing in front of my friends and family has made this experience even more enjoyable.”
A Match of High Stakes
The match took place at Toronto’s Sobeys Stadium, where Fernandez showcased her ability to dominate the court. Despite her disappointment at not playing in the much-anticipated evening session, she remained focused on her game. “I was a little upset because I love playing in the evenings, especially here in Canada,” she admitted. However, she expressed gratitude for the ample preparation time provided before her match against Andreeva.
As Fernandez continues to draw a large following, she has become a beacon for the Filipino community in Toronto, who have rallied behind her and fellow WTA star Alex Eala throughout the tournament. Eala, who recently claimed her first title, is scheduled to compete against American Caty McNally later that evening.
Looking Ahead
With her remarkable performance, Fernandez has advanced to the round of 16, where she will face Naomi Osaka. This marks her best showing at the Canadian Open, matching her 2023 round of 16 result. Notably, this victory against a top-10 player is her first since July 2025, when she defeated then-No. 4 Jessica Pegula at the DC Open.
Fernandez’s journey in this tournament has been impressive, especially following her second-round exit at the DC Open last week. She stated, “My team and I just said, ‘got to win to get an evening match,’” indicating her determination to keep pushing forward in the competition.
Canadian Hopes Dwindle
Despite Fernandez’s success, the Canadian women’s singles contingent has faced challenges, with five players already eliminated from the main draw, including former champion Bianca Andreescu. Meanwhile, in the ATP tournament in Montreal, key players like Félix Auger-Aliassime, Denis Shapovalov, and Gabriel Diallo have also been sidelined due to injuries.
Fernandez’s recent coaching changes, including the addition of Eric Hechtman to her team alongside her father, have been pivotal. She noted, “It’s a little too soon to see the full effects of Eric’s coaching, but he’s working really well with my dad and helping me to believe in my game.”
Why it Matters
Fernandez’s victory is not just a personal milestone but also a testament to the growing talent in Canadian tennis. As the last Canadian standing in a high-profile tournament, she carries the hopes of a nation on her shoulders. Her journey reflects a broader narrative of resilience and potential within Canadian sports, particularly as she aims to build on this momentum in the coming rounds. This win could serve as a launching pad for her career, inspiring young athletes across Canada and beyond.