Leylah Fernandez: Tennis Sensation, US Open Finalist & More

Leylah Fernandez is a rising star in the world of tennis. Born in Canada with a multicultural background, she has captured hearts with her fierce playing style and determination. At just 22 years old, she has already made history in major tournaments.

Her journey from a young girl in Montreal to a global tennis icon is inspiring. She turned pro in 2019 and quickly rose through the ranks. Known for her left-handed shots and never-give-up attitude, Leylah has become a role model for aspiring athletes.

In this biography, we dive deep into her life story. From her early days to her latest triumphs in 2025, we cover it all. Whether you’re a tennis fan or just curious, you’ll discover the full picture of Leylah Fernandez’s remarkable path.

Fact	Details
Full Name	Leylah Annie Fernandez
Date of Birth	September 6, 2002
Age (as of 2025)	22
Birthplace	Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Nationality	Canadian
Height	5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
Playing Style	Left-handed (two-handed backhand)
Turned Professional	2019
Highest Singles Ranking	No. 13 (August 8, 2022)
Current Singles Ranking (2025)	No. 26
WTA Singles Titles	4
Grand Slam Best	US Open Finalist (2021)
Coach	Jorge Fernandez (father)
Residence	Boynton Beach, Florida, USA
Languages Spoken	English, French, Spanish

Early Life and Childhood

Leylah Annie Fernandez was born on September 6, 2002, in Montreal, Quebec. Her family background is diverse and played a big role in shaping her.

Her father, Jorge Fernandez, is from Ecuador. He was a former football player who later became her coach. Her mother, Irene Exevea, is a Filipino Canadian. Leylah has a younger sister, Bianca Jolie Fernandez, who is also a tennis player.

Growing up in Montreal, Leylah was active from a young age. She started playing tennis at five years old. Her father introduced her to the sport, even though he had no tennis background. He learned coaching skills to support her.

The family faced financial challenges early on. They moved around to support Leylah’s training. Despite this, her parents encouraged her passion. Leylah’s childhood was filled with practice sessions and family support.

She showed talent early. By age 10, she was competing in local tournaments. Her multicultural roots gave her a unique perspective. She speaks English, French, and Spanish fluently.

These early years built her resilience. Leylah often credits her family for her strong work ethic. Her childhood in Canada laid the foundation for her tennis dreams.

Education and Growing Years

Leylah attended École secondaire Antoine-de-Saint-Exupéry in Montreal. She balanced school with intense tennis training.

As a teen, she focused on junior tennis. Education remained important to her family. In her growing years, she juggled studies and sports.

Currently, Leylah is studying business at Indiana University East. This is through a WTA partnership for online degrees. It allows her to learn while touring.

Her growing years were marked by dedication. She trained hard under her father’s guidance. Moving to Florida helped her access better facilities.

These years shaped her discipline. Leylah learned to manage time between school, practice, and competitions. Her education continues to support her career goals.

Entry into Tennis

Leylah’s entry into tennis began at age five. Her father, Jorge, coached her despite lacking experience in the sport.

She competed in junior events by age 10. In 2019, she turned professional at 16. That year, she won the French Open girls’ singles title.

Her first pro title came at the Gatineau Challenger in July 2019. She beat Carson Branstine in singles and won doubles with Rebecca Marino.

Leylah’s style is aggressive and left-handed. She uses a two-handed backhand. Early coaches noted her speed and determination.

Joining the WTA Tour was a big step. She played her first WTA event in 2019. This marked the start of her professional journey.

Breakthrough Moment

Leylah’s breakthrough came at the 2021 US Open. At 19, she reached the final, stunning the world.

She defeated top players like Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber, and Elina Svitolina. All were top-5 ranked. Her run ended in the final against Emma Raducanu.

This moment made her famous. She jumped from No. 73 to No. 28 in rankings. Fans loved her fighting spirit.

The US Open run was historic for Canada. It was her first Grand Slam final. This breakthrough defined her early career.

Rise to Fame

After the US Open, Leylah’s fame grew fast. She won her first WTA title at the 2021 Monterrey Open.

In 2022, she reached No. 13, her career high. She made the French Open quarterfinals that year.

Media attention increased. Sponsors like Lululemon and Babolat signed her. Leylah became a global ambassador for tennis.

Her rise included leading Canada in international play. In 2023, she helped win the Billie Jean King Cup for the first time.

By 2025, she won the Citi Open, her biggest title yet. Her fame continues to grow with consistent performances.

Career Highlights

Leylah’s career is full of milestones. She has four WTA singles titles as of 2025.

Major Tournaments

In Grand Slams, her best is the 2021 US Open final. She reached French Open quarters in 2022.

In doubles, she was French Open finalist in 2023 with Taylor Townsend. At the 2024 Olympics, she made singles third round.

In 2025, she won the Citi Open (WTA 500) over Anna Kalinskaya. She also reached Australian Open third round.

Awards & Achievements

Leylah won the Bobbie Rosenfeld Award in 2021 as Canada’s female athlete of the year.

She earned the Heart Award twice in 2023 for Billie Jean King Cup. Tennis Canada named her Player of the Year four times.

Her achievements include leading Canada to Billie Jean King Cup victory in 2023. She beat top players like Markéta Vondroušová.

Career Timeline

• 2019: Turns pro, wins French Open junior title, first pro titles.
• 2020: First WTA final at Mexican Open.
• 2021: Wins Monterrey Open, US Open finalist.
• 2022: Career-high ranking No. 13, French Open quarters.
• 2023: Billie Jean King Cup win, French Open doubles final, Hong Kong Open title.
• 2024: Rotterdam Open title, Olympic third round.
• 2025: Citi Open champion, consistent top-30 ranking.

Personal Life

Leylah lives in Boynton Beach, Florida, with her family. She trains there for better weather and facilities.

Her family is close-knit. Father Jorge coaches her, mother Irene supports, and sister Bianca plays tennis too.

In 2025, Leylah shared she went on her first date ever. She asked fans for suggestions before the Canadian Open. This surprised many, as she’s focused on career.

She enjoys football, supporting Real Madrid and Manchester City. Leylah likes reading and spending time with family.

Her lifestyle is athletic and disciplined. She follows a strict training routine. Travel is part of her life on the WTA Tour.

Controversies or Challenges

Leylah has faced few major controversies. However, her father’s coaching style drew criticism in 2025.

Former pro Barbara Schett called it “insane” how Jorge treats her during matches. Schett claimed it’s distracting and compared it to other coach-player issues.

Leylah defended her father, praising his mental coaching. No formal complaints arose.

She also faced scheduling challenges. In 2025, she criticized the Canadian Open for not honoring promises on match times.

Injuries have been a challenge. She dealt with a foot injury in 2022, affecting her play.

Another incident: During a 2024 match, she clashed with Qinwen Zheng over crowd noise. It was minor but highlighted on-court tensions.

Overall, Leylah handles challenges with grace. Her focus remains on improvement.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Leylah is involved in philanthropy. She supports education and sports for underprivileged kids.

Through WTA programs, she promotes women’s tennis. Her multicultural background inspires diverse communities.

In 2023, winning the Billie Jean King Cup boosted Canadian tennis. She mentors young players in Canada.

Leylah advocates for mental health in sports. She shares her stories to help others.

Her social impact is growing. As a role model, she encourages girls in sports. Fans admire her humility and work ethic.

Fun Facts About Leylah Fernandez

• She started tennis because her father wanted her to try a new sport.
• Leylah is a big football fan and follows Real Madrid closely.
• At 16, she won her first junior Grand Slam at the French Open.
• She speaks three languages fluently, thanks to her heritage.
• Leylah’s favorite shot is her forehand cross-court winner.
• She enjoys cooking Filipino dishes from her mother’s recipes.
• In 2021, she beat defending champion Naomi Osaka at the US Open.
• Leylah studies business online while touring the world.
• Her sister Bianca is also a pro tennis player.
• She won her biggest title in 2025 at the Citi Open.

Leylah Fernandez in Pop Culture

Leylah has appeared in media beyond tennis. Documentaries highlight her US Open run.

She’s featured in WTA ads and magazines like Vogue. Social media boosts her popularity, with millions of followers.

In Canada, she’s a national hero. TV shows interview her often. Her story inspires books on young athletes.

Pop culture references her as a symbol of perseverance. Movies about tennis prodigies draw from her life.

Legacy & Influence

At 22, Leylah’s legacy is building. She’s influenced Canadian tennis profoundly.

Her US Open final inspired a new generation. Young players cite her as motivation.

Leylah’s influence extends to diversity in sports. As a woman of color, she breaks barriers.

Her legacy may include more titles and Olympic medals. She aims for Grand Slam wins.

Overall, Leylah represents hard work and family values. Her influence will last for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How old is Leylah Fernandez?

A: Leylah Fernandez is 22 years old as of 2025, born on September 6, 2002.

Q: What is Leylah Fernandez’s highest ranking?

A: Her highest singles ranking is No. 13, achieved on August 8, 2022.

Q: Has Leylah Fernandez won a Grand Slam?

A: No, but she was runner-up at the 2021 US Open and reached doubles final at the 2023 French Open.

Q: Who coaches Leylah Fernandez?

A: Her father, Jorge Fernandez, is her primary coach.

Q: What is Leylah Fernandez’s nationality?

A: She is Canadian, with Ecuadorian and Filipino heritage.

Q: How many WTA titles has Leylah Fernandez won?

A: She has won four WTA singles titles as of 2025.

Q: Is Leylah Fernandez in a relationship?

A: In 2025, she revealed going on her first date, but keeps her personal life private.

Q: What awards has Leylah Fernandez won?

A: She won the Bobbie Rosenfeld Award in 2021 and multiple Heart Awards in 2023.

Final Thoughts

Leylah Fernandez’s story is one of triumph over odds. From humble beginnings to tennis stardom, she inspires many.

Her journey shows the power of family and hard work. As she continues in 2025 and beyond, expect more achievements.

Leylah is more than a player; she’s a beacon of hope. Her legacy will grow, influencing future generations.