At 19, Leylah Fernandez made history by beating three former Grand Slam champions in one US Open run. This incredible feat made her a global sensation. Born in Montreal, she has won several WTA trophies, including the 2023 Hong Kong Open.
She also led Canada to its first Billie Jean King Cup title in 2023. Fans are eager to know how old is tennis player Leylah Fernandez today. She is in her early twenties and continues to grow in the sport.
Leylah Fernandez is known for her quick timing and bold returns. Her unique blend of grit and touch makes her tennis exciting to watch. She is a rising star in the tennis world.
Rooted in Montreal tennis culture, Fernandez is feared on hard courts everywhere. She carries Canadian hopes with her fearless style and charming smile. Her journey is inspiring, and she’s just getting started.
Early life in Montreal and multicultural roots
Born in Montreal, Quebec, she grew up in a family that loved many cultures and languages. She started playing tennis in local courts. Weekend trips to tennis Laval kept her dream alive.
The city’s excitement for Montreal Open tennis and stories of milos Montréal inspired her. Young fernandez felt that big stages were within reach.
From Montreal, Quebec to the world stage
She trained all year, moving between parks and indoor courts in winter. Coaches praised her focus and timing, rare for her age. These hours turned her into a fearless hitter ready for global events.
Ecuadorian father and Filipino-Canadian mother’s influence
Her Ecuadorian father taught her discipline and fitness routines. Her Filipino-Canadian mother brought calm and the belief in balancing school and sport. This mix grounded leylah fernandez., keeping her roots in Montreal while expanding her world view.
Starting tennis at five and competing by age 10
She started playing at five, copying swings from local clubs. By 10, she was competing across Quebec, often against older players. Weekend tournaments in Montreal and near tennis Laval built tough habits and a love for competition.
Becoming the youngest Canadian to win ITF 25K main draw matches
Her early breakthrough was on the ITF circuit, where she became the youngest Canadian to win main draw matches at 25K events. This surge began close to home, with confidence built at Montreal Open tennis weeks. It marked the moment when fernandez moved from promising junior to rising pro, with Montreal and Laval guiding her.
| Milestone | Age | Local Roots | Shaping Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| First racquet in hand | 5 | Neighbourhood courts, tennis in Montreal | Family routines and playful drills |
| Regular junior tournaments | 10 | Club events across Montreal and tennis Laval | Match toughness, early travel habits |
| ITF 25K main draw wins | Teen | Confidence from Montreal Open tennis buzz | Ecuadorian work ethic, Filipino-Canadian resilience |
| Path to global tours | Late teens | Support from Montreal tennis community | Balance inspired by milos Montréal stories and local mentors |
Junior breakthrough and the road to No. 1
At 16, she made fernandez tennis a big deal in Canada. She improved her returns, made early contact, and moved calmly. This success linked her to the Roland-Garros juniors and more.
2019 Roland-Garros Girls’ champion over Emma Navarro
In Paris, she played well, took control, and beat Emma Navarro. This win showed her skill in final tennis. It also highlighted her court smarts for the pros.
Australian Open junior final versus Clara Tauson
Before that, in Melbourne, she faced Clara Tauson in the Australian Open junior final. The match tested her, improving her quick start and strong replies. This is what fernandez tennis is all about.
Rise to world No. 1 in juniors
The Paris win made her junior No. 1. It showed her consistency on different surfaces. From Montreal to the Roland-Garros juniors, her journey was bold and fearless.
WTA debut and early strides on tour
She made a strong entrance into the pro world, impressing fans in Canada and worldwide. Her early performances showed a unique style. It was built on quick movements, precise timing, and a calm demeanor.
This style was perfect for big events like the Canadian Open and the montreal open. Sometimes, people mistakenly call it the canadian ipen.
First WTA main draw at Tournoi de Québec (WTA 250)
Her first big match was at the Tournoi de Québec, a WTA 250 event. It was a chance for her to show off her aggressive playing style. The fast indoor court suited her well, making her a force to be reckoned with.
Win over Gabriela Dabrowski, battle with Heather Watson
Her first win was against Gabriela Dabrowski. She used clever angles to control the game and grab key points. The next match was a tough battle against Heather Watson.
It was a test of her endurance and skill, with long rallies and tight service games.
Billie Jean King Cup upset of Belinda Bencic
She then made a big impact in the Billie Jean King Cup, beating Belinda Bencic. This win marked a significant leap from junior to professional level. It showed her growth and talent, much like her performances at the Canadian Open and montreal open.
Mexico moments: Acapulco and back-to-back Monterrey titles
Mexico was a turning point for Leylah Fernandez. She found her groove on North American hard courts. The warm nights and energetic crowds boosted her game, leading to bigger wins, including at the montreal open tennis week.
First WTA final in Acapulco without dropping a set
At the Mexican Open Acapulco in 2020, Fernandez reached her first tour final. She won every set without losing one. Her early shots and bold returns were key, but she lost to Heather Watson in the final.
Monterrey Open champion in 2021 and 2022
In Monterrey, Fernandez’s success grew. In 2021, she won without losing a set, using her lefty forehand and sharp angles. She came back in 2022 to win again, showing great point management and calm in tiebreaks.
Consistent hard-court success in North America
Her success in Mexico boosted her results across North America. Her quick tennis and speed stood out. The confidence from her Mexican and Monterrey wins helped her in tight matches and big stages, including the montreal open tennis.
US Open 2021: The breakout run
At 19, Leylah Fernandez took New York by storm. She combined fearless returns with calm shots, gaining momentum in each match. This led her from underdog to US Open finalist, with fans cheering on every point.
Wins over Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber, and Elina Svitolina
She shocked defending champion Naomi Osaka in a tense third round. She saved break points with bold lefty shots. Then, she faced former No. 1 Angelique Kerber, winning with gutsy hitting.
Against Elina Svitolina, she showed great nerve, reading her opponent’s moves well. Each victory boosted her confidence and excited the crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Semi-final victory against Aryna Sabalenka
The semi-final was against Aryna Sabalenka, known for her power. Fernandez matched her pace, absorbing strong shots and turning rallies around. Her poised finish earned her a spot in the final, with fans cheering her on.
Final versus Emma Raducanu
The final against Emma Raducanu was a clash of two young stars. Fernandez pushed the pace, chasing every corner, showing her determination. Her play was as fierce as it was throughout the tournament.
Global fan favourite status at age 19
Her fearless play and heartfelt interviews won fans worldwide. Fernandez’s success under pressure made her a star to watch, beyond the US Open.
Leylah Fernandez
In the Leylah Fernandez profile, she shines as a left-handed player with quick timing and sharp court sense. Fans love her mix of angles, hustle, and net play. She went from being a junior No. 1 to a Grand Slam finalist, always keeping her spark.
She made a strong start on tour, moving from her WTA debut in 2018 to her first final in Acapulco. She won titles in Monterrey in 2021 and 2022, and in Hong Kong in 2023. Her ability to perform under pressure is impressive. Her youth and calmness make each match a lesson in skill and nerve.
Her 2021 US Open final run made her famous, but her story goes beyond that. She also won the 2023 Billie Jean King Cup with Team Canada. This part of her profile shows a player who reads the ball well, changes pace, and competes fiercely.
Today, Fernandez keeps working on her first-strike game and return play. She excels on hard courts but also adapts to different surfaces. People often wonder about her age, but the real question is her ability to stay calm under pressure.
Whether hitting a cross-court backhand or stepping inside the baseline, Fernandez makes every small detail count. She shows her intent with active feet, clean preparation, and confidence on big points. In short, Fernandez is a modern player who trusts her instincts and turns pressure into an opportunity.
Team Canada pride: Billie Jean King Cup glory
In Seville, she turned pressure into fuel and lit up the arena with Canadian tennis pride. Wearing the maple leaf, she led Team Canada tennis to an unbeaten run at the Billie Jean King Cup. She showed poise, grit, and a cool head in clutch moments.
Unbeaten week in Seville leading Canada to its first title
Across the finals week, she never blinked. Each match stacked belief, and each point raised the volume for Canada. The group fed off that energy, and the wins kept coming.
Key wins over Marketa Vondrousova and Jasmine Paolini
Against Czechia, she outlasted Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova in three tense sets to swing the tie. In the final with Italy, she sealed the crown with a crisp 6-2, 6-3 over Jasmine Paolini. She finished with fearless returns and clean patterns up the line.
Dynamic doubles with Gabriela Dabrowski
Her partnership with Gabriela Dabrowski clicked under bright lights. They took the initiative at the net, pressed second serves, and shut the door in the biggest moments. That chemistry became a weapon for Team Canada tennis throughout the week.
Playing for the whole country: motivation and mindset
Canada on the back gave her calm and drive. She spoke about family sacrifices and how they sharpened her focus. The result was a simple, strong message: play brave, trust the work, and let Canadian tennis pride carry the last ball over the net.
| Round | Opponent(s) | Event | Result | Deciding Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-final Singles | Marketa Vondrousova | Billie Jean King Cup Finals, Seville | Win in 3 sets | Early returns to the body and depth on the forehand cross |
| Semi-final Doubles | Barbora Krejcikova / Katerina Siniakova | Billie Jean King Cup Finals, Seville | Win in straight sets | Poaching with Gabriela Dabrowski and first-strike positioning |
| Final Singles | Jasmine Paolini | Billie Jean King Cup Finals, Seville | 6-2, 6-3 | High first-serve rate and backhand redirects down the line |
Recent form and tournaments to watch
She has been busy playing against top players and facing tight schedules. Her matches show what she’s good at and what she needs to work on. This will help her prepare for the Canadian Open atp.
Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships results and takeaways
In Dubai, she lost to Elise Mertens in the first round, 6-2, 6-2. She faced 13 break points and was broken four times. Mertens won 70 percent of her serve points.
In doubles, she lost to Peyton Stearns and Lulu Sun. They won 3-6, 6-2, 10-5 in a super tiebreak.
The next year, she played Jasmine Paolini and lost. This showed how important it is to return serves well early in the game.
Facing elite fields: matches vs. Elise Mertens, Iga Swiatek, Jasmine Paolini
She has played against top players like Elise Mertens, Iga Swiatek, and Jasmine Paolini. These matches highlight the importance of serving well and returning deeply.
Against Iga Swiatek, she lost to the eventual finalist. This shows how fast the game can change. Playing Jasmine Paolini taught her to be more aggressive and shorten points.
Momentum from the 2023 Hong Kong Open title
Winning the Hong Kong Open 2023 boosted her confidence. It was her third WTA title and showed her aggressive returning and baseline play. This form helps her in busy weeks.
As the Canadian Open atp approaches, she focuses on serving well, being proactive, and making quick transitions. These skills were key in Hong Kong.
| Event | Round | Opponent | Scoreline | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (Singles) | R1 | Elise Mertens | 2-6, 2-6 | Faced 13 break points; opponent won 70% of serve points |
| Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (Singles) | R2 | Jasmine Paolini | Loss | Defeated by eventual champion; emphasis on return depth |
| Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (Singles) | Later Rounds Context | Iga Swiatek | Loss | Stopped by eventual finalist; pace and timing were decisive |
| Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (Doubles) | R1 | Peyton Stearns/Lulu Sun | 3-6, 6-2, 5-10 | Match tie-break turned on first-serve swings |
| Hong Kong Open 2023 | Final | Championship Win | Title | Third WTA trophy; aggressive returning set the tone |
Connections across Canadian tennis
Canadian tennis is built on shared roots and hard courts. These shape bold styles. The Canadian Open is a key event that links stories across tours.
The event is known as the Canadian Open ATP on the men’s side. It gives fans a close look at rising stars and proven champions.
Montreal tennis culture and the Canadian Open
In August, ATP Montreal turns the city into a buzzing arena. Crowds pack sessions to watch crisp rallies and fearless shot-making. The Canadian Open brings global rivals to local courts, turning tennis Montreal into a festival of pace, tactics, and heart.
For young players, these courts feel like home ground. The rhythm of the week, from practice blocks to night matches, builds belief and sharpens match craft.
Links with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Canada’s ATP presence
Félix Auger-Aliassime carries the flag for auger tennis with calm power. Fans search for felix auger aliassime and auger-aliassime highlights because he blends first-strike serves with quick transitions. At the same venue, ATP Montreal spotlights his growth and the surge around him.
Spelling slips like felix auger alliassime also point to the same talent. His rise mirrors Canada’s broader push. The Canadian Open ATP stage amplifies these connections, keeping momentum local and loud.
Gabriela Dabrowski’s doubles success and Canadian depth
Gabriela Dabrowski sets the tone in doubles with sharp returns and net instincts. Her major title with Erin Routliffe in New York underlined timing and trust under pressure. Shared weeks with teammates build a base where tactics travel fast from practice to matches.
These links strengthen belief. Pairings gel, scouting improves, and the pathway from junior to pro becomes clearer across the calendar.
Context with Milos Raonic and the rise of tennis in Montreal
Milos Raonic added weight to Canada’s profile with a serve that changed matches. His presence at the Canadian Open and in milos montreal storylines drew new fans and set standards for preparation. As milos raonic returned to select events, the buzz reminded crowds how a single weapon can redefine a court.
Together, these threads—Dabrowski’s craft, Auger-Aliassime’s fire, and a city that lives the sport—keep the Canadian Open central to the country’s tennis map.
| Figure | Signature Strength | Event Lens | Montreal Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Félix Auger-Aliassime | First-strike baseline and serve aggression | Canadian Open, Canadian Open ATP, ATP Montreal | Boosts auger tennis profile; draws new fans to tennis Montreal |
| Gabriela Dabrowski | Elite returning, poaching, and formations in doubles | Grand Slams, Canadian Open | Raises tactical standards; models partner synergy |
| Milos Raonic | High-velocity serve plus first-ball control | Canadian Open, ATP Montreal | Anchors milos montreal narratives; inspires power-based development |
Style of play, coaching, and mindset
Her game is a mix of skill and boldness. In fernandez tennis, she hits the ball early, keeps her racquet calm, and moves lightly. This approach turns defence into attack smoothly.
Lefty timing, early ball striking, and angles against power players
She uses left-handed tennis to open up the court. Then, she strikes the ball early to punish her opponents. This creates sharp angles that trouble taller players and disrupt their rhythm.
Her style keeps points short but interesting. It invites mistakes but also rewards precision and quick thinking, key to fernandez tennis.
Jorge Fernandez’s coaching and the family’s sacrifices
The foundation comes from Jorge Fernandez. He emphasized timing over power and repetition over showiness. The family made big sacrifices to support her training, shaping her approach to the game.
Training focuses on quick starts, compact swings, and staying calm under pressure. This system excels on hard courts and adapts well to different surfaces.
Resilience, fighting spirit, and on-court composure
Her identity is built on resilience and calm nerves. A strong fighting spirit is evident in her long rallies, saved break points, and composed body language when it matters most.
She takes deep breaths between points and focuses on simple cues. These habits help her stay composed, even in the toughest moments of the third set.
Looking ahead: Goals, Olympics, and mixed doubles possibilities
She has Paris 2024 marked on her calendar. The Olympic tennis event will be at Roland-Garros, where she won as a junior. She’s preparing hard, ready to face the clay.
Paris ambitions and Roland-Garros connections
Her plan is to arrive in top shape. She wants to master long rallies and trust her clay skills. Her junior win at Roland-Garros gives her confidence in big moments.
For more on her Olympic journey, check out this Olympic profile.
Potential doubles and mixed doubles pairings with Canadian stars
With Gabriela Dabrowski, they have a strong partnership. Their teamwork is key on any surface. In mixed doubles, Felix Auger-Aliassime or Denis Shapovalov could be her partners.
Targets for WTA 1000s, Canadian Open, and North American swing
She’s focused on doing well at WTA 1000s. A strong showing at the Canadian Open will boost her ranking. Her strategy includes precise serving and disciplined play.
Conclusion
Leylah Fernandez has become a shining star in Canadian tennis. Born in Montreal, she has roots in Ecuador and the Philippines. She became the junior No. 1 and won titles in Monterrey and Hong Kong.
Her journey to the US Open final was incredible. She beat Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber, Elina Svitolina, and Aryna Sabalenka. This made her a well-known name.
Her win in the Billie Jean King Cup showed her leadership. It lifted her team and the nation.
Recently, Fernandez competed in Dubai. She faced top players and improved her skills on hard courts. At home events like the Canadian Open, she loves the support from the crowd.
She’s aiming for the Olympics and has a chance to win more doubles titles. This could be with Canadian stars.
Her future is bright, thanks to her determination and smart coaching. Fernandez is known for her bravery and creativity on the court. She stands out among Canadian tennis players like Raonic, Auger-Aliassime, and Diallo.
Her story is inspiring, and Canadian tennis is making a mark worldwide. Fernandez believes in facing challenges head-on. She shows courage and skill, whether in New York or Mexico.
Her journey is ongoing, and she’s set to achieve more. The future looks promising for Fernandez and Canadian tennis.