Summary:
- Leylah Fernandez defeated Rebecca Sramkova 7-6 (2), 6-3 and advanced to the semifinals.
- The Canadian is the highest seed left after Naomi Osaka withdrew with a leg injury.
- Fernandez will face either Viktorija Golubic or Sorana Cirstea next.
Canada’s Leylah Fernandez secured her place in the semifinals of the Japan Open on Friday, defeating Slovakia’s Rebecca Sramkova 7-6 (2), 6-3.
The 23-year-old, currently ranked No. 27 in the world, continues to build momentum after taking both Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka to three sets in tough matches during recent tournaments in China.
Since arriving in Japan, she’s strung together three straight-set wins and looks increasingly confident on court. Fernandez has already enjoyed a successful 2025 season, highlighted by her win at the Washington Open earlier this year.
Her latest run adds to an impressive resume that now includes four WTA titles and a growing reputation for resilience and composure under pressure.
Firing through 🔥@leylahfernandez makes it to the semifinals with a 7-6, 6-3 win over Sramkova.#JapanOpen pic.twitter.com/r2n8PSYabf
— wta (@WTA) October 17, 2025
Up Next
The Laval, Quebec native will face either Viktorija Golubic of Switzerland or Sorana Cirstea of Romania, as the two will clash against one another in the quarter of the Japan Open for the second time in their careers.
The 35-year-old Romanian has more victories in head-to-head matches against the 33-year-old Swiss player.
With top seed Osaka withdrawing before her quarterfinal due to a leg injury, Fernandez now stands as the highest-ranked player remaining in the draw. This position puts her in a strong spot to chase another title.
Fans looking to place a wager on Fernandez’s next match can check out TigerGaming’s sports welcome bonus for new players as a great way to get started before the semifinals.
