Fernandez back in action on home soil

Canadian star in great mood as National Bank Open begins

Leylah Annie Fernandez celebrating with fist pum
Leylah Annie Fernandez suffered a stress fracture at the French Open, but she's back for her home country event ready to go. (Photo: Tennis Canada.) 

Canadian tennis sensation Leylah Annie Fernandez’s rehab from a stress fracture in the foot did not hamper her mood or expectation coming into this year’s National Bank Open.

The 2021 US Open finalist was all smiles as she met with the media Saturday afternoon before she takes to the court later this week here in Toronto.

After suffering her first serious injury in her young professional career, at the French Open, she shared how the rehab journey taught her new things about herself.

“I learned that I’m very impatient. I thought I was going to be extremely patient,” says Fernandez. “But patience has definitely been key for me.”

Patience will be a major asset this week as she tries to navigate a tough draw featuring No. 1-ranked Iga Swiatek.

While injured the Montreal native continued to work on her problem-solving skills, a valuable asset, for tennis players, in an unorthodox manner.

“Reading those true crime books or watching those shows, like I always tried to solve the case like before the show ends before I finished the book.”

Having the support of a full capacity hometown crowd will be something new for her but something she is looking forward to.

“I know that the tennis fans are excited to see the Canadian girls and I’m sure everybody’s just gonna have some fun.”

Without any COVID-19 restrictions and fans back in the stands Fernandez will be looking to improve on her 2021 performance where she lost in straight sets to Harriet Dart.

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Posted: Aug 6 2022 9:56 pm
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