In a stunning display of talent and determination, Leylah Fernandez triumphed over world No. 5 Mirra Andreeva, the recent French Open champion, with a decisive score of 6-1, 6-4 during the third round of the National Bank Open in Toronto. The victory not only marks a significant milestone in Fernandez’s career but also positions her as the last Canadian player remaining in the tournament, igniting hopes among local fans.
Dominant Performance Against a Top Seed
The 23-year-old from Laval, Quebec, ranked 34th in the world, showcased her skills at Sobeys Stadium, dictating the flow of the match against the 19-year-old Andreeva. This victory, her first against a top-10 player since July 2025, demonstrates Fernandez’s potential to reclaim her status as a formidable competitor on the WTA Tour.
Reflecting on her performance, Fernandez expressed her excitement, stating, “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. Also, I’m playing in front of my friends and family, getting to see them after matches, and also like hanging out with them has been so much fun.”
A Missed Opportunity for Night Play
Despite her impressive victory, Fernandez admitted to feeling a tinge of disappointment for not playing in the highly anticipated evening session, which she had enjoyed earlier in the week. The match against Andreeva was scheduled during the afternoon to accommodate the Russian’s doubles commitments later that day.
“I was a little bit upset, because of course I love to play in the evening, especially here in Canada,” Fernandez remarked. “I’m actually glad that they spoke to me beforehand. They gave me ample time, so I was able to kind of prepare myself mentally and kind of get over that little disappointment.”
Fernandez’s drive to secure an evening match showcases her competitive spirit. She noted, “My team and I just said, like, ‘got to win to get an evening match,’ so hopefully next round we get an evening match.”
The Filipino Community’s Support
The Toronto crowd has been particularly vibrant, with a noticeable presence from the local Filipino community, not only rallying behind Fernandez but also supporting Alex Eala, a rising WTA star from the Philippines. Eala, who recently claimed her first title, continues to attract Filipino fans, further enriching the atmosphere at the tournament.
Fernandez’s connection to her roots has been a source of motivation, and she appreciates the backing of her community, especially as they come together to celebrate the achievements of Filipino athletes.
Canadian Contingent Faces Challenges
While Fernandez thrives, the Canadian contingent at the National Bank Open has faced significant challenges. Five other compatriots, including former champion Bianca Andreescu, have already been eliminated from the singles draw. In the ATP tournament occurring concurrently in Montreal, key players Gabriel Diallo, Denis Shapovalov, and world No. 4 Félix Auger-Aliassime have all succumbed to injuries, leaving a palpable sense of urgency for Canadian tennis to rally behind Fernandez as she advances deeper into the competition.
Fernandez’s victory over Andreeva came after a solid second-round performance against Mexico’s Renata Zarazua, which she won 6-2, 6-2. Her efficient play against Andreeva was marked by a strong service game and strategic shot placement, capitalising on her opponent’s unforced errors.
Coaching Changes Yield Early Results
Recently, Fernandez has also made a strategic addition to her coaching team, bringing in Eric Hechtman to assist her father, Jorge Fernandez. The young athlete has expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting that Hechtman’s approach complements her father’s style without attempting to overhaul her game. “I would say, like, it’s a little too soon. But what I do like about his coaching is that he’s working really well with my dad… especially in tight moments,” she said.
Why it Matters
Leylah Fernandez’s victory at the National Bank Open is not just a personal achievement; it resonates deeply within the Canadian sporting landscape, showcasing the potential of homegrown talent. As the last Canadian standing in the tournament, her journey offers a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes. With the support of her community and a renewed sense of confidence, Fernandez has the opportunity to make a significant impact in the latter stages of the competition, potentially reigniting the passion for tennis in Canada.
