Leylah Fernandez continued her impressive 2025 season with a hard-fought victory over Czech teenager Tereza Valentova to capture the Japan Open title in Osaka. The Canadian star prevailed 6-0, 5-7, 6-3 in an entertaining final to claim her second WTA title of the year and the fifth of her career.
Fernandez, currently ranked world number 27, added the Japan Open crown to her DC Open triumph earlier this season in Washington, D.C. The 23-year-old showed both resilience and composure after her young opponent mounted a strong comeback in the second set.
The match began with Fernandez dominating proceedings, taking full control of the opening set in just over 30 minutes. Her aggressive returns and precise ball placement left Valentova struggling to find her rhythm. However, the 18-year-old Czech regrouped in the second set, finding her range and matching Fernandez’s intensity with powerful baseline rallies. Valentova’s fearless play earned her a crucial break, allowing her to level the contest and force a decider.
In the third set, Fernandez showcased her experience and determination, breaking early to reassert her dominance. Despite carrying heavy strapping on her right thigh, she maintained her composure and tactical sharpness, closing out the match when Valentova’s forehand found the net.
After sealing victory, Fernandez expressed admiration for her opponent’s spirited performance, acknowledging Valentova’s breakthrough week in Osaka. She praised the teenager’s poise and predicted a bright future for the Czech rising star, who was appearing in her first WTA final.
Fernandez also paid tribute to her father, who doubles as her coach and hitting partner, for his constant support and encouragement. Reflecting on her journey, she noted that the victory was the result of patience, hard work, and resilience through challenging times.
The win marks a significant milestone for Fernandez, as it is the first time in her career that she has captured multiple titles in a single season. With growing confidence and momentum, the Canadian is now eyeing further success when she competes at the upcoming Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, top seed and former world number one Naomi Osaka was forced to withdraw from the Japan Open before her quarter-final match due to a leg injury, paving the way for Fernandez to shine on home soil for the Japanese fans.
