Fernandez stuns frustrated Osaka to reach round of 16 at US Open

The atmosphere in Arthur Ashe stadium was electric on Friday night, as Canadian teenager Leylah Fernandez shocked the tennis world by ousting defending champion Naomi Osaka in their third round encounter at the 2021 US Open.

The 18-year old displayed focus and determination that was reminiscent of Osaka herself, rallying from a set down to score a 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 victory over the Japanese superstar.

With neither competitor caving early in the match, Osaka dug deep to snatch the first set from her younger opponent. The third seed obtained a crucial break in the second set, and even served for the match at 6-5. However, a resilient Fernandez fought back, pushing the set to a tiebreak. It was here that Osaka began to unravel, making uncharacteristic errors that led to her tossing her racket to the ground in frustration. This drew the ire of the crowd, with some booing the two-time champion. Nonetheless, Fernandez remained unaffected, maintaining her composure to claim the second set.

To everyone's surprise, the World No.73 obtained an early break in the final set to lead 2-0. The Canadian never looked back, engaging with Osaka in long rallies that the former World No.1 was unable to maintain. With so much pressure on her shoulders, Fernandez was able to serve out the match, leaping in joy as Osaka's final forehand sailed long.

The Canadian teenager will face another left-handed player in the round of 16, as Angelique Kerber defeated Sloane Stephens in a clash between former US Open champions.