"When you add that to the equation, it doesn’t really help": Leylah Fernandez admits return to US Open always tough amid 2021 final run

Leylah Fernandez showcased her trademark composure and focus in her first-round win at the 2025 US Open, navigating the unique challenge of facing a close friend in Rebecca Marino while competing at the highest level. Albeit she managed to seal a 6-2, 6-1 win.

Speaking at her post-match press conference, Fernandez shared insights into her mental preparation, the pressures of high expectations, and her enduring love for the game and the US Open New York crowd.

“It was a very good match, high level from my part,” Fernandez said. “As I said on court, it was mainly mentally and emotionally. I was very focused and in tune, especially knowing that I was playing against Rebecca. It's never easy playing against a friend, so I'm just happy that I was able to stay focused on myself and execute my game.”

The challenge of competing against a friend was a recurring theme throughout the discussion. Fernandez explained that while she respects and supports her fellow Canadian players, stepping onto the court required a mental switch. “I was just happy I was able to put my friendship aside and focus on my job. I had to switch my mindset: she’s not my friend in that moment. It’s time to hit the ball. She’s going to hit very hard, so I had to be ready and fast to defend, and also fast to attack when I had the chance,” she said.

Fernandez also addressed the challenges of returning to the US Open since her breakthrough run in 2021. “If we’re looking at it performance-wise, it’s definitely been a little bit harder, because I put high expectations on myself,” she said. “Even before the US Open, I always have very high expectations for my level of play and my matches. So after 2021, when you add that to the equation, it doesn’t really help.”

Yet the excitement of being back in New York remains undiminished. “I was also super excited to be back, because of what I experienced in 2021, the love that the crowd and the New York fans showed for myself and my tennis, and the passion they brought during not only my matches, but all matches. It’s been a dream to experience that, and every year I’ve been able to feel it.”

When asked about Emma Raducanu’s recent comments on the pressures of returning to the tournament, Fernandez noted, “Everybody deals with pressure and stress a little bit differently. For me, I try to stay focused on myself. And no, I’m not surprised, because I’m also a little bit that way. So I guess we’ve both gone through the same path, maybe we just deal with it differently.”

Fernandez was candid about her initial reaction to drawing Marino in the first round. “No way did I draw Rebecca in my first round. I know how dangerous she is. When she’s feeling it, and she’s on, it’s so tough to play against her. I’ve practiced with her many times over the years, and every time we play points, it’s always been neck and neck. I remember playing her in Tampico and she won that match. So when I saw I had a qualifier, I was like, ‘Please don’t let it be Rebecca,’ and then the gods went against me once again.”

Still, she approached the match as both a challenge and an opportunity to test her mental strength. “It’s not only about the tennis, but also the emotional and mental side. I’m just happy I was able to manage it well today,” she said.

Fernandez also offered guidance for young players like fellow Canadian Victoria Mboko. “I’d say enjoy the moment. Enjoy the pressure and the expectations that come with it. Sometimes when you fight it too much, you’re actually taking energy away from yourself on court. So I’d tell her to enjoy the ups and downs of tennis, and also to have a good team around her. I know her coaches—they’re amazing. And she’s grounded with her family and her team, so I’m not worried about her.”

Reflecting on the experience of playing in stadiums versus outer courts, Fernandez said she loves both. “On the outer courts, you’re actually closer to the fans, they can be right behind you, and you hear everything. I love that, because you feel the encouragement and belief they have in you. It’s more intimate. But the stadiums are also a dream come true. As a kid, you watch legends play on those courts. So hopefully I get a chance to play on Arthur Ashe or Armstrong this tournament.”

Asked what she might change about tennis, Fernandez suggested a more dynamic fan experience. “I love when the stadium is quiet between points or before we serve. But I also think it would be interesting if it was more like a team sport—soccer, American football, basketball—where you can hear the cheers during points. Imagine hitting a good shot, and the crowd can’t believe it and starts cheering you on for the next ball. It would feel more like a team sport.”

Ultimately, Fernandez’s reflections highlighted the delicate balance between competition and camaraderie. “We’re both on different paths, but with the same goal, to get to the next round. Every time I watch her play, or any Canadian play, I want them to win. So when I face a Canadian or a good friend, it makes me a little sad at the end because there can only be one winner. But that’s the sport I chose. Of course, it’s difficult to put those emotions aside, but that’s how it is.”