FILE PHOTOS
NEW YORK — The first time Leylah Fernandez crossed paths with Alex Eala, it marked the start of a connection beyond tennis — one shaped by shared heritage and mutual respect.
“Alex is an amazing player,” Fernandez told Inquirer.net USA in a sit-down interview Saturday at the US Open media center. “Earlier this year, I didn’t get the chance to really talk to her, but we always cross paths. We always say hi.”
For Fernandez, the Canadian left-hander who stormed to the US Open final in 2021, Eala stands out not only as a fellow southpaw but also as an athlete whose intensity and focus never fail to impress.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
You may like Filipino heritage on court: Alex Eala, Leylah Fernandez all set for US Open
Fellow lefties
“Yesterday, for the Bravo 150th anniversary, we finally got the chance to really have a conversation,” she said.
“She’s such a sweet girl. Every time I watch her play, I love how intense and focused she is. We’re fellow lefties, so it’s always nice to see. And she’s super aggressive on court, so I know there’s definitely great things coming. She’s achieved a lot this year, and I hope it continues.”
You may like Alex Eala at US Open 2025 main draw: Key things to know
Leylah Fernandez interviewed by Inquirer.net USA at the US Open media center. Photo by Georgio Dano
Fernandez said she admires Eala’s influence as a role model for young athletes in the Filipino diaspora.
“She’s inspiring a lot of young Filipinos and Filipinas to continue their journey, whether in sport or other passions,” she said.
Leylah Fernandez embraces her Filipino roots
The 22-year-old Montreal native, whose mother, Irene, is from the Philippines, reflected on the lasting impact of her heritage.
“The Filipino roots definitely inspired me on and off the court growing up,” Fernandez said.
“Every time I visit my Lolo in Mississauga, they introduce me to Filipino food and culture. As I was getting better in tennis, I saw how close the culture is, the passion they have for their athletes, and how much they support and want athletes to succeed. It’s not just in tennis — there’s boxing, running, whatever the passion is. It gives me motivation and confidence that I’m not alone on court.”
Photo by Georgio Dano
Fresh off her title run in Washington, D.C., earlier this month, Fernandez is looking to build momentum in New York. On Sunday, she returns to Court 17 for her U.S. Open match, scheduled for 12:40 p.m.
As for future plans, Fernandez dreams of visiting the Philippines.
“That’s been my dream,” she said. “I want to do a tennis clinic there, visit the cities where my Lolo and Lola were born, and just enjoy the culture. It would be an amazing family trip for all of us.”
Asked how she handles pressure in high-stakes matches, Fernandez said she welcomes the challenge.
“For me, I like the challenge. It’s not really pressure but a moment I’ve always dreamed of – playing against higher-ranked players, enjoying my time, and may the better player get to the next round.”
