Leylah Fernandez of Canada secured victory in the Japan Women’s Open final against Tereza Valentova of the Czech Republic after a challenging match that ended 6-0, 5-7, 6-3. The 23-year-old Fernandez, hailing from Laval, Quebec, dominated the first set in just 28 minutes but faced a resilient Valentova, 18, who fought back strongly at the Utsubo Tennis Center in Osaka.
This win marks Fernandez’s second title of 2025 and the fifth of her career, following her earlier triumph at the Washington Open. Expressing her gratitude after the match, Fernandez credited her coach and father, Jorge Fernandez, as well as her team and family for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
During the intense final, Fernandez showcased her skills with three aces, seven winners, and minimal unforced errors and double faults. She outperformed Valentova by winning 43 points while receiving, compared to Valentova’s 31. Fernandez’s strong serving game showed a 70% win rate on first serve and a 46% success rate on second serve. She successfully defended five out of nine break points, while Valentova saved nine out of 16.
Looking ahead, Fernandez is set to compete in the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo, where she will face Maria Sakkari of Greece due to a scheduling change. Meanwhile, Toronto’s Victoria Mboko will now play against Bianca Andreescu from Mississauga in an exciting all-Canadian first-round matchup.
This victory adds to Fernandez’s impressive career achievements, solidifying her status as a rising star in the world of tennis.