Leylah Fernandez delivered a stunning performance at the National Bank Open in Toronto, defeating world No. 5 and recent French Open champion Mirra Andreeva with a decisive score of 6-1, 6-4. The 23-year-old from Laval, Quebec, is the last Canadian standing in the tournament and will now advance to the round of 16, where she will face former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka.
A Celebration on and off the Court
After her victory, Fernandez entered the post-match press conference with a celebratory ice cream bar in hand, embodying the joy of her impressive win. This match marked her most significant victory in quite some time, as she displayed a level of confidence and skill that overwhelmed the young Russian star.
“I’m feeling a lot of motivation this week, not just because I’m competing at home in Canada, but also due to the amazing support from the crowd,” Fernandez expressed. “Being able to play in front of friends and family adds a special touch to the experience.”
Afternoon Match Disappointment
Despite her triumph, Fernandez voiced her disappointment at not playing in the evening session, which was filled with an electrifying atmosphere. “I love playing at night, especially in Canada,” she admitted. The scheduling conflict arose because Andreeva also had doubles commitments later in the day, forcing the match to take place in the afternoon.
“I was a bit upset at first, but I’m grateful they communicated with me in advance. It allowed me to prepare mentally and move past that disappointment,” Fernandez added.
Community Support and Future Challenges
The support from Toronto’s vibrant Filipino community has been palpable, particularly as they rallied behind fellow rising star Alex Eala. Eala’s presence has attracted numerous fans to the event, enhancing the atmosphere for both players.
Fernandez’s successful run at the National Bank Open equals her best performance at this event, matching her round of 16 finish last year. This win against a top-10 player is particularly significant for her, marking the first time she has defeated a player ranked in the top 10 since her remarkable victory over Jessica Pegula in July 2025.
While several Canadian players have exited the tournament, including former champion Bianca Andreescu and doubles specialist Gabriela Dabrowski, Fernandez stands out as the beacon of hope for Canadian tennis this week.
Dominance on the Court
In her match against Andreeva, Fernandez played with remarkable efficiency, capitalising on her opponent’s unforced errors. Although Andreeva managed to break back while trailing 5-2 in the second set, Fernandez remained composed and served out the match in a tidy 80 minutes.
This week in Toronto has seen Fernandez display a newfound confidence, having previously secured a decisive win against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua in the second round.
With the addition of Eric Hechtman as a second coach, alongside her father Jorge, Fernandez is optimistic about the changes in her training. “It’s a bit early to see the full impact, but I appreciate how well he works with my dad. He’s not trying to change my game but rather enhance it, helping me believe in my abilities, especially in crucial moments.”
Why it Matters
Fernandez’s victory at the National Bank Open not only showcases her potential to return to the top echelons of women’s tennis but also serves as a reminder of the depth of talent in Canadian tennis. Her performance could inspire a new generation of athletes while reigniting interest and support for the sport in Canada, especially among the Filipino community. As she progresses in the tournament, the spotlight on her journey could significantly impact her career trajectory and the landscape of Canadian tennis as a whole.
