
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 9, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Leylah Fernandez of Canada serves against Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus (not pictured) on day eleven of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Sep 9, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Leylah Fernandez of Canada serves against Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus (not pictured) on day eleven of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
The tennis world was abuzz with surprise and intrigue as the Canadian rising star Leylah Fernandez embarked on an unexpected journey at the Mubadala Citi Open. Despite securing her spot in the main draw, fate dealt her a twist, leading her to compete in the qualifiers.
Fans and experts were left perplexed by this turn of events, wondering why the young talent had to face such a challenging path. Their reactions ranged from sadness to frustration, questioning the authorities’ decisions and expressing concern over the impact on Leylah’s game.
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Fans express disapproval as Leylah forced to play qualifiers
As news of Leylah Fernandez’s detour to the qualifiers spread, fans took to social media to share their thoughts. This was not what many expected to happen, but it did. Fans were utterly terrified of the decision.
One fan expressed a sense of sadness, stating, “To see Leylah playing qualifiers makes me somewhat sad.”
To see Leylah playing qualifiers makes me somewhat sad.
— Ziggy🇬🇭🇮🇹. (@jaymith17) July 29, 2023
Another fan questioned the sudden change, asking, “What happened to her? She was in the main draw one minute, then wasn’t the next,” reflecting the confusion and disappointment felt by many supporters.
What happened to her? She was in the main draw one minute, then wasn't the next.
— MoonGoddess26N80W (@MoonGoddessN26) July 29, 2023
Some fans empathized with the challenging nature of the sport, acknowledging that tennis can be brutal. “A slam finalist 2 years ago 🙁 Tennis is brutal 😭😭😭,” wrote one fan, highlighting the tough realities of the game.
A slam finalist 2 years ago :(. Tennis is brutal 😭😭😭 https://t.co/T4afPyOAvW
— Shank Heimer (@Shankballs) July 29, 2023
Another simply found the situation “annoying,” indicating dissatisfaction with the authorities’ decision.
Just annoying https://t.co/0u0fDMQ3NE
— thabo (@osakarenaa) July 29, 2023
Another fan did not seem to understand the changes in the system that led the 2021 US Open finalist to play the qualifiers. The user still seemed confused over the authorities’ decision.
She’s in quailes? https://t.co/DJ4hh8YCSV
— Eddy (@esweendog85) July 29, 2023
However, amidst the uncertainty, many fans continued to rally behind their favorite player, expressing hope and encouragement. “Love to see it again! 👏🏾👏🏾” chimed in one fan, expressing her back in form and winning her match.
Love to see it again! 👏🏾👏🏾 https://t.co/UMRak4LlnQ
— Audrey (@audreyveronne) July 29, 2023
Leylah Fernandez’s journey at the Mubadala Citi Open has been one of unexpected twists and turns. While fans expressed a range of emotions, from sadness to frustration, they continue to rally behind the young tennis sensation. Her progression to the second round of the qualifiers showcases her determination and talent, despite facing an unanticipated obstacle.
Also read: Coco Gauff Sends Her Wishes to Good Friend Leylah Fernandez as She Announces Unfortunate News
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Leylah Fernandez faces tough British challenge in the next round of qualifiers
Leylah Fernandez, undeterred by the twist of fate, showcased her tenacity and skill in the qualifiers, progressing to the second round. However, the road ahead remains arduous as she now faces a formidable opponent, Katie Boulter. The British player enters the tournament as the 6th seed, and her presence could pose a significant challenge for Leylah.
As fans anxiously await the face-off between the two talented players, they remain optimistic about the Canadian star’s abilities and resilience. Her past achievements and captivating performances have garnered widespread admiration, making her a fan favorite on the tennis circuit.

USA Today via Reuters
Sep 7, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Leylah Fernandez of Canada reacts after winning a point against Elina Svitolina of Ukraine (not pictured) on day nine of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
As Leylah prepares to take on Katie Boulter, the tennis world eagerly awaits a thrilling match between two formidable players. Regardless of the outcome, Leylah’s unwavering spirit and the unwavering support of her fans are testaments to her bright future in the sport.
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