“Lose it your way”: Leylah Fernandez recalls father's advice after fighting back from 4-0 down in Tokyo final

Monday, 02 November 2026 at 04:30

Leylah Fernandez came close to producing a remarkable turnaround in the Pan Pacific Open final, recovering from a 6-4, 4-0 deficit against Diana Shnaider before eventually falling short in three sets. The Canadian was unable to claim her second consecutive title in as many weeks, but her performance in Tokyo offered another example of the fighting spirit that has defined her career.

Shnaider, the tournament's No. 3 seed, appeared to be cruising towards her first title of the season after establishing a commanding advantage in the second set. However, Fernandez refused to accept defeat, winning seven of the next eight games to take the set 7-5 and force a deciding set. The comeback ultimately proved insufficient, but it brought the Canadian within reach of another significant title.

The final was Fernandez's second in consecutive weeks, following her runner-up finish to Elena Rybakina at the Ningbo Open. Reaching back-to-back championship matches represents an encouraging stretch for the former US Open finalist, who has been working to build consistency and put herself in contention for titles again.

Speaking after the match, Fernandez explained how she found the determination to fight back from 4-0 down, recalling advice from her father that helped her change her approach.

Fernandez recalls father's advice after fighting back in Tokyo

Fernandez admitted that she had struggled to make the right decisions during the opening stages of the match, with Shnaider dictating much of the play. However, despite falling four games behind in the second set, the Canadian never considered the match over.

“Yeah, I mean, my goodness, it was a tough match. Diana played really well. I think in the first set, and even throughout the second set, I wasn't making the smart decisions and was kind of doubting myself a little bit.

“But, you know, at 4-0 down, I knew it wasn't over. I just wanted to fight. I remembered what my dad would say: if you're going to lose, lose it your way."

“So I started attacking, trying to take the ball early, opening up the court and trusting myself a lot more. The balls went in. As the set progressed, I was also thinking a little bit about my grandfather, trying to use his strength to give me just a little bit more strength to keep going and fighting.”

The change in approach was reflected in the numbers. Fernandez won 40 points during the second set, with 24 of them coming from winners, highlighting the level of aggression she brought to the match after falling behind.

“Yeah, definitely. I did say that I needed to be more aggressive and just try to take my chances as much as possible. It's unfortunate that I couldn't continue hitting those winners in the third set. But it's definitely a lesson learned: not to wait until my back is against the wall next time.”

Fernandez's reference to her grandfather was particularly significant given the circumstances surrounding the final.

“I just want to thank my family who are back home. We had some bad news today but thank you so much for all the support, all the messages, it really means a lot," the 24-year-old player added. “And Lolo, I know you are looking down on us so thank you for always being strong and supporting us. I know you are going to take care of us from above, so thank you.”

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Three finals provide confidence heading into 2027

Despite the disappointment of losing another final, Fernandez identified several positives from her recent performances. Reaching the championship match in Ningbo and Tokyo gave her and her team the opportunity to test the improvements they have been working on in competition, particularly under pressure.

The Canadian explained that match situations provide a different challenge from practice, making the Asian swing valuable preparation ahead of the next stage of her career. “We know that preseason is around the corner, and there are definitely things we want to work on technically, mentally and physically."

“But there's also the tactical side. You can say all you want in practice and work on the right patterns all the time, but the reality is that in a match, there's a different kind of pressure and a different kind of stress. You want to experience that.

“I'm just happy that over the last few weeks I was able to work things out, be mentally strong and get through the matches. That's never easy. I'm proud of the work that my team and I have done so far, and we just have to keep going that way.”

Leylah Fernandez celebrates in Hong Kong.

Fernandez also pointed to her physical condition as an important source of encouragement. After reaching three finals in a relatively short period, she believes the results are providing confidence that the work being done with her team is moving her in the right direction.

“It gives me a lot of confidence, especially with how I'm feeling physically. I'm feeling good, so it gives me an extra boost. Hopefully, we can transfer that into 2027,” the former US Open runner-up added. “But the season is still not over. I still have Hong Kong, so I just have to recuperate and get back on track as quickly as possible.”

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Fernandez will therefore have another opportunity to finish her season with a title at the Hong Kong Open. While the Tokyo final ended in disappointment, her consecutive runner-up finishes in Ningbo and Tokyo, combined with her confidence in her physical condition, provide a foundation to build on heading into 2027.

Her immediate lesson, however, is clear: she wants to bring the aggressive approach that helped her recover from 4-0 down into matches from the beginning, rather than waiting until she is on the brink of defeat.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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