“Playing Against Serena”: Leylah Fernandez Reveals Childhood Dream After Reaching Semi-Finals at US Open 2021

Leylah Fernandez is enjoying a dream run in the ongoing US Open 2021. The Canadian sensation has already dispatched favorites for the trophy in Naomi Osaka and Elina Svitolina. She will now face Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final.

Against Svitolina yesterday, Fernandez’s resilience was in full display. She didn’t bow down to the experience of her opponent and continued to play her natural game to clinch the victory.

Even in the previous matches against Kerber and Osaka, the Canadian didn’t flinch when things weren’t going her way.

Her semi-final matchup against Sabalenka is expected to light up the New York skyline from the Arthur Ashe stadium as both the players are heavy hitters, especially from the baseline. It would also be interesting to see which tactics will be employed by Aryna to reach her first major final.

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“I’ve imagined myself playing on every tournament” – Leylah Fernandez after reaching US Open semis

Ahead of the semi-final matchup, Leylah Fernandez was asked whether she ever dreamt of playing in a big tournament amidst a huge crowd. The Canadian cited Justine Henin as an inspiration and said that she would imagine playing against her.

“Well, yeah, I’ve imagined myself playing on every tournament, every grand slam, at the biggest stage. When I was younger, since I used Justine Henin as a great example, I would imagine myself playing against her and then I would also imagine myself playing against Serena and Venus, the past few years, playing against Osaka in a big tournament”. 

Fernandez also mentioned the importance of enjoying herself on court while playing these big matches.

“But, you know, just when I was younger, I’ve always seen myself being in a big stadium in-front of so many people and just having fun on the court”, concluded the Canadian.

Her ability to remain calm and composed while facing adversities on-court at a young age will make Leylah Fernandez one of players on the WTA tour to look forward out for in the future.

Also read: Leylah Fernandez Details How Meeting Billie Jean King and Juan Martin del Potro Inspired Her at US Open 2021