TORONTO — Canadian tennis star Leylah Fernandez opened up about a personal struggle during her recent run at the National Bank Canadian Open, revealing that her family endured "a bit of a scare" that weighed heavily on her mind throughout the tournament.
The 21-year-old, who reached the quarterfinals before falling to eventual champion Jessica Pegula, shared the emotional challenge during a post-match press conference. While she did not disclose specific details about the family matter, Fernandez emphasized how the experience tested her resilience both on and off the court.
A Difficult Balancing Act
Fernandez, known for her fighting spirit and 2021 US Open final run, admitted that the situation made it difficult to focus at times. "Tennis is my passion, but family always comes first," she said. "It was tough to compartmentalize everything."
Despite the emotional strain, the Montreal-born athlete pushed through, crediting her support system for keeping her grounded. She highlighted the role of her team, including her coach and physiotherapist, in helping her maintain her competitive edge. "They reminded me why I love this sport and why I keep fighting," she added.
Fan Support Lifts Her Spirits
Playing on home soil provided an unexpected boost for Fernandez. The Canadian crowd rallied behind her, offering loud cheers and encouragement during her matches. "The fans were incredible," she said. "Their energy kept me going when things felt overwhelming."
Her performances reflected her determination, particularly in a hard-fought three-set victory over American Peyton Stearns in the Round of 16. Fernandez later acknowledged that the win was especially meaningful given the circumstances. "That match was for my family," she said. "I wanted to make them proud, no matter what was happening behind the scenes."
A Broader Perspective
The experience reinforced Fernandez’s perspective on life beyond tennis. She spoke about the importance of mental health and the challenges athletes face when personal struggles intersect with professional demands. "We’re human first, athletes second," she emphasized. "It’s okay to admit when things are hard."
Fernandez also took a moment to thank her fans for their unwavering support, both during the tournament and in the weeks leading up to it. "Knowing people believe in me helps more than they realize," she said. "I play for them just as much as I play for myself."
Looking Ahead
With the Canadian Open behind her, Fernandez is now shifting her focus to the upcoming US Open, where she hopes to recapture the magic of her 2021 breakthrough. She confirmed that her family situation has stabilized, allowing her to compete with a clearer mind.
Her coach, Jorge Fernandez (no relation), praised her ability to perform under pressure. "Leylah has always been mentally tough, but this week showed another level of maturity," he said. "She handled everything with grace and professionalism."
Key Takeaways from Fernandez’s Experience
- Family First: Even elite athletes face personal challenges that take precedence over competition.
- Mental Resilience: Fernandez’s ability to compete at a high level despite emotional strain highlights her mental fortitude.
- Fan Impact: The support from Canadian fans played a crucial role in keeping her motivated.
- Future Focus: With her family situation improving, Fernandez is ready to tackle the rest of the season head-on.
As she prepares for Flushing Meadows, Fernandez remains optimistic. "Every challenge makes me stronger," she said. "I’m just grateful to have my family by my side and the chance to keep doing what I love."