Leylah Fernandez will not represent Canada at the Billie Jean King Cup

US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez announced she will not be joining Team Canada for the Billie Jean King Cup, which runs from November 1-6 2021 in Prague, Czech Republic.

"It has always been an honor to represent my country,” said Fernandez. “Canada has given me and my family so much opportunity and in the last few weeks, the Canadian support has meant the world to me. After consideration, I have made the decision to not play the BJK Cup Finals. I wish my team all the best this November!”

The 19-year old will be replaced by Toronto native Carol Zhao, who has played in three Billie Jean King Cup events in her career.

“We know that representing her country means the world to Leylah,” commented Sylvain Bruneau, Interim Team Canada Captain for the Finals. “But it has been a long season and we understand her decision. That said, we are delighted to be able to welcome Carol onto the team for the Finals. Carol has shown from her past experiences that she is a great team player. She will be a very valuable addition to the team.”

The Finals will be played on the hard courts of Prague’s O2 Arena in the Czech Republic from November 1-6. Team Canada will start the competition by facing representatives from France (No. 1) and the Russian Tennis Federation (RTF).