"There have been some changes in my game that I didn't want" - Leylah Fernandez on frustrations since her 2021 US Open final run

Tennis star Leylah Fernandez has experienced highs and lows in her budding tennis career, and the 22-year old took some time to reflect on her growth during this rollercoaster period.

The Canadian burst into the limelight when she reached the 2021 US Open final, toppling the likes of Elina Svitolina and second seed Aryna Sabalenka en route to the final round. Although she fell to an in-form Emma Raducanu, Fernandez announced her arrival on the WTA scene and has been a staple on tour ever since.

The Montreal native is currently competing at the 2024 Hong Kong Open, where she defeated Australian Kimberly Birrell to reach the quarterfinals. Fernandez has had some major success, reaching a career-high ranking of World No.13 and leading Canada to Billie Jean King Cup glory.

Nonetheless, Fernandez refuses to rest on her laurels and admitted she still had a lot to learn.

"The progression as a player hasn't been straightforward, with a lot of ups and downs," said the Canadian. There have been some changes in my game that I didn’t want, but I just had to keep learning and growing. Because of those experiences I've been able to learn more about myself as a person and who I want to become on court.
"Yes, I'm a very ambitious person, we are a very ambitious team with high goals. We can’t always be satisfied with results we've done in the past and must make sure we look ahead."