From the moment she arrived in Vancouver (Canada), Leila Fernandez (#21 in the world) monopolized the flashes of photos and the target of all the looks yearning for the Canadians’ first presence in the Billie Jean King’s Cup finals.
Canada, led by Heidi Tabakh, beat Latvia 3-0, claiming a quick win on the indoor hard court at Pacific Coliseum Vancouver. Fernandez won her first match in straight sets, 6-1 6-2 against Latvian Darga Semenistaga (#389).
He showed that despite his twenty years, the pressure is not at all weighing on him when it comes to representing his country. “I think my favorite moment today was listening to the fans,” Fernandes said after the match.
Hear ‘Go, Canada, go!’ and “Go for a night.” That was my favorite part. The atmosphere and energy it gave me.” When asked about his team’s chances in the finals, he did not hesitate: “We can win.”
On Friday, Rebecca Marino (No. 111) beat the Latvian top seed Daniela Vismani (# 230) in three sets 6-3, 6-7 (4), 6-3 to clear the way for the Americans. Lilha entered the scene again to conclude Canada’s victory.
In his third singles match, he defeated Vismane in straight sets, 6–2 and 6–1. Fernandez put Canada on the world tennis map thanks to this historic victory. Canada’s number one tennis gift is Canada’s gift, but while she’s having fun she’s thinking of sowing her seed for future tennis and tennis players.
“Tennis has given me a lot. A lot of positivity, a lot of opportunities. I just want the same for the new generations, where they can start the sport, take hits, have fun and a positive environment around them,” Laila commented on the sentiment.
Leila Fernandez and Rebecca Marino’s singles victories for this all-important victory aren’t the only things that stand out in the Cheb-led team. They should be credited with having such a sexy doubles player as Gabriela Dabrowski (9th in the WTA Doubles Ranking).
Canada will be in the 2022 Billie Jean King Cup Final. A team that is growing and has to be taken into consideration from now on.
