Leading up to the Cincinnati Open, Canadian tennis star Leylah Fernandez has been making headlines for something other than her powerful forehand. The 22-year-old revealed in a surprising and candid social media post that she was looking to go on her very first date. Fernandez, who has been a professional athlete since she was a teenager, explained that her busy schedule had never allowed her the time for romance. The announcement, which came with the playful caveat that any potential suitor would have to meet her father first, quickly went viral and resulted in over 100 messages pouring into her direct messages.
The unusual approach to finding a date was actually a suggestion from her father and coach, Jorge Fernandez. During a conversation, he asked her if she had ever been on a date, to which she replied no. He then encouraged her to try something fun by posting a video on Instagram, offering to go on a one-hour date with someone in her hometown of Montreal. The idea was to create a comfortable and familiar setting for her first foray into dating. Fernandez admitted she’s not a fan of dating apps and wanted to do things “her way,” which turned into a very public and modern-day dating sweepstakes.
Following her victory at the Citi DC Open, and a first-round exit at the Canadian Open which gave her more time in Montreal, Fernandez shared a positive update on her dating life. She revealed that she had, in fact, gone on a date with a fan whose message stood out to her. After a little “stalking” to make sure he was a real person, and getting the approval of her family and team, she met him. She described the date as a “great time” and noted that they were keeping in touch and had even been on a second date.
This newfound balance between her professional and personal life seems to be having a positive effect on Fernandez. She’s been open about having a tough time earlier in the year, but now feels more steady and is excited to compete. Her story has resonated with fans and other athletes, who shared their own experiences of prioritizing sports over personal relationships at a young age. Fernandez has shown a new side of herself, one that is not only dedicated to her career but also to her personal happiness.
As she heads into the Cincinnati Masters, Fernandez’s journey is a refreshing reminder that even elite athletes are regular people with a desire for connection. She has managed to navigate the unique challenges of her demanding career while also embracing a new chapter of her life. Her willingness to be vulnerable and share this personal experience has endeared her to many, and fans are now eagerly following her progress both on and off the court.
About The Author
