Fernandez just relieved to be in 'top shape' after Australian Open Cornet win: "I feel ready for the challenges that’s coming in the next round"

Leylah Fernandez faced a very tricky challenge in the opening round of the Australian Open but she battles past Alize Cornet much easier than expected.

Cornet developed a reputation for beating better-ranked players but that did not happen against Fernandez. The Canadian played a really solid match to win it in straight sets and set up a superb round two matchup against Caroline Garcia. It was also an important win for Fernandez as it was her first win at the Australian Open and she reflected on that:

"Before the match [against Cornet] and during the match, I wasn’t thinking about that, but after when I did hear it was my first win at the Australian Open, it did feel like it’s a good step in the right direction. I’ve been playing this tournament for a couple of years, and always fell short of a first-round win. It wasn’t easy to accept, but I was just happy that I was able to get through it and to get another chance to play here.”

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She's probably not playing her best tennis right now but she's just happy to be able to play at all:

“I don’t know what my best level is. I just want to improve and get better every day and I want to see what my body and mind can do for the next couple of years. I’m just happy that I am in top shape, that I’ve worked hard in the pre-season with my coaches and fitness coach and I feel ready for the challenges that’s coming in the next round.”

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