This archive report was first published on 4 September 2021.
On September 4, 2021, Canadian teenager Leylah Fernandez made history at the US Open, defeating four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka in a thrilling match.
Fernandez, who was just three days shy of her 19th birthday, battled back from a set down to win 5-7, 7-6 (7/2), 6-4.
Despite Osaka's strong serve, which landed 63% of the time, Fernandez found a solution to the problem of returning her serve, ultimately breaking to force a tie-breaker in the second set.
‘I was very happy how I played in the first set. In the break I was telling myself to stay positive, keep fighting. ‘I’m there. I’m close,’” Fernandez said.
With her determination and faith in her abilities, Fernandez rolled to a 5-0 lead in the tie-breaker, ultimately winning the match.
‘I guess today that belief came true,’” Fernandez said, reflecting on her victory.
The win has brought Fernandez a lot of confidence, and she believes it shows her game is improving and it's there in the top.
‘It gives me a lot of confidence. It shows my game is improving and it’s there in the top. I was able to beat a very great, amazing player,’” Fernandez said.
