Leylah Annie Fernandez earned her first win in four attempts against Maria Sakkari, cruising past the former world No. 3 in straight sets in the China Open second round on Friday.
The Canadian took just under 75 minutes to defeat Sakkari 6-2, 6-0.
Fernandez didn’t let any break opportunities go to waste against the Greek, converting on all her five break points. The Lavalloise also saved both break points she faced and lost just 15 points on serve.
What looked to be a simple hold for Sakkari at 40-15 in the opening game, Fernandez was able to rally to eventually secure the break three deuces later. The Canadian No. 2 then held to take a 2-0 advantage.
At 4-2, 15-40, Fernandez powered a return winner to set herself up to serve for the set. The 23-year-old held three set points and converted on the third attempt to take the opener.
Read also: Returning Andreescu Ousted in China Open First Round
The second was smooth sailing for Fernandez. The Canadian once again managed an early break in the first game then faced a bit of pressure on serve, rallying from a 15-40 hole to hold and lead 2-0.
In the fifth game, Fernandez was given the chance to serve for the match after Sakkari committed her second double fault of the day on break point.
At 5-0, 40-15, the Lavalloise capped off the match with a forehand winner and booked her ticket into the third round of a WTA 1000 for the fourth time this season.
Fernandez will face world No. 3 Coco Gauff in the round of 32 on Sunday. The two met in the same round at this year’s Australian Open with the American taking the match in straight sets.
Read also: Mboko Finding Comfort Amidst Life-Changing Success Thanks to Coaching Team
Canadian Victoria Mboko begins her 2025 China Open campaign later tonight against world No. 59 Anastasia Potapova.
Feature Photo: Martin Sidorjak
