Remember the Mubadala Citi DC Open earlier this year? Leylah Fernandez stole the spotlight after clinching the WTA 500 crown, defeating Anna Kalinskaya in the final. Yet, her fiercest test came against American powerhouse Taylor Townsend, where the Canadian battled inconsistency and a late-set leg injury before sealing a gritty 6-4, 7-6(4) win. Months later, that same warrior spirit has resurfaced on the other side of the world. During her ongoing Japan Open clash with Hailey Baptiste, Fernandez’s bandaged leg turned heads, a worrying sight, yet a powerful reminder of her relentless drive and fearless fight.

In a recent tweet, Stephanie Myles wrote, “You don’t see Leylah Fernandez with body parts wrapped too much. But she’s got a left thigh wrap today in Osaka v Hailey Baptiste. Not that it seems to be bothering her at all so far.”

Though she may have mistyped, the match is between the Canadian and Hailey Baptiste, not Naomi Osaka; the concerning sign was undeniable. Fernandez’s right leg was heavily strapped with a thick white bandage, turning heads and raising questions, yet her fearless energy and relentless fight remained unmistakable on the court.

Despite the bandage, Leylah Fernandez showcased her grit, overpowering Hailey Baptiste in straight sets, 6-2, 7-5. In the Round of 32, the Canadian fired three aces and, despite a 60% first-serve rate, claimed 74% of points and converted four crucial break points, leaving no doubt about her resilience.

Fernandez now advances to the Round of 16 at the Japan Open, marking her first R16 appearance since the Monterrey Open in August, where she fell to Rebecca Sramkova. With this strong showing, fans are left wondering: how is Leylah Fernandez’s recent tennis campaign truly shaping up?

Leylah Fernandez’s challenging journey through recent tennis tournaments

On the court, Leylah Fernandez has endured a challenging stretch in recent tournaments. Her fight at the China Open was nothing short of heroic, but ultimately heartbreaking, as she fell to Coco Gauff 6-4, 4-6, 7-5 in a grueling, nearly three-hour battle. Despite the loss, Fernandez pushed the defending champion to the brink, refusing to surrender easily and showcasing the fiery spirit that has defined her career.

The struggles continued at the Wuhan Open, where Fernandez faced former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka. After taking the first set 6-4, the Canadian’s momentum faltered, and she dropped the next two sets 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 in a two-and-a-half-hour contest. Another early exit for the 2021 US Open finalist, the loss highlighted her ongoing journey to rediscover her top form.

Yet, Fernandez hasn’t let the challenges dim her spirit off the court. The 23-year-old gave fans a glimpse into her personal life via Instagram, engaging with followers and answering questions about various aspects of her life.

When asked about her relationship status, Fernandez offered a simple yet telling reply: “It’s good.” The brief answer delighted her fanbase, who have closely followed her growth and personal journey since she first opened up about wanting to experience dating.

Back on the court, however, the focus returns to her tennis. Fans are hoping for a resurgence, a spark that can lift her game to the level they know she is capable of.

Now in the Round of 16 at the Japan Open, all eyes are on Fernandez. Can she channel her fighting spirit, overcome recent setbacks, and recreate the rapid rise she displayed earlier this season at the Citi DC Open? 

The stage is set, and the next chapter of her journey is ready to unfold.