Leylah Fernandez is gearing up to represent Canada at the 2024 Billie Jean King Cup Finals, marking her fourth appearance at the prestigious tournament. As Team Canada’s star player, Fernandez is determined to lead her team to success once again, building on their remarkable triumph last year. Before the intense action on the court gets underway, Fernandez, known for her vibrant personality, brought some lightheartedness to the tournament’s opening events with a humorous reflection on her Halloween outfit, drawing laughter and camaraderie from fellow competitors.
During a trophy presentation ceremony that featured players from various teams, Fernandez, a 2021 US Open finalist, was asked about her 2024 Halloween costume, which quickly became a popular topic among fans and the media. Displaying her characteristic charm and humor, Fernandez enthusiastically spoke about dressing up as an avocado—a choice that entertained everyone present, including players like Iga Swiatek, Taylor Townsend, Paula Badosa, Anna Karolina Schmiedlova, Tatjana Maria, and even 2024 Billie Jean King Cup Finals tournament director Conchita Martinez. “I dressed up as an avocado. I found it sexy. I thought it was the best costume out there. You know, gotta go with the avocados of Mexico,” Fernandez said, sparking laughter and applause from her peers.
The 22-year-old’s humor provided a brief, lighthearted break from the serious preparations for what promises to be a fiercely competitive tournament. Fernandez leads a strong Canadian team that includes recently crowned WTA Finals doubles champion Gabriela Dabrowski, Rebecca Marino, and Marina Stakusic. Canada enters the competition as the top seed and will face either Germany or Great Britain in the quarterfinals, setting high expectations for Fernandez and her teammates.
Fernandez and Dabrowski’s partnership has already proven to be a winning combination, as the duo played a pivotal role in securing Canada’s maiden Billie Jean King Cup title in 2023. In last year’s competition, the Canadian team, which also featured Stakusic, Marino, and Eugenie Bouchard, triumphed over Jasmine Paolini-led Italy in the final. Their historic victory was celebrated across Canada and marked a significant milestone in Canadian tennis history.
Reflecting on their previous success, Fernandez expressed both pride and determination to replicate that achievement. Canada’s defending champion status means they automatically qualified for the 2024 Finals, bypassing the qualification stage. This year, they aim to solidify their dominance and build on their strong legacy in the competition. “We’ve had such an incredible journey as a team,” Fernandez said. “Winning last year was a dream come true, and we are motivated to give it our all once again.”
Fernandez’s journey to the 2024 Billie Jean King Cup Finals comes on the heels of a season filled with both challenges and impressive moments. She concluded her regular season at the WTA 250 Hong Kong Open, where she made a deep run before falling to eventual champion Diana Shnaider in the semifinals. Despite the setback, the experience further honed her skills and competitive edge, which she now brings to the Billie Jean King Cup.
Beyond her Billie Jean King Cup appearances, Fernandez has consistently represented Canada on the international stage throughout her young career. She competed in the Summer Olympics twice, advancing to the second round in Tokyo in 2021 and the third round in Paris in 2024. Earlier this year, Fernandez also participated in the 2024 United Cup, though Team Canada was unable to progress beyond the group stages. Nevertheless, her commitment to representing her country remains unwavering, and she continues to inspire fans with her dedication and passion for the sport.
For Fernandez, the Billie Jean King Cup Finals offer more than just a chance to win a title; it is an opportunity to showcase her growth, leadership, and unwavering team spirit. As the top-seeded team, Canada faces a formidable field of competitors, but with Fernandez at the helm, the defending champions are prepared to take on any challenge. Her blend of skill, determination, and playful spirit—evident in both her on-court performances and off-court antics, like the avocado costume—make her a beloved figure in the tennis world.
With the tournament set to unfold in Malaga, Spain, tennis fans around the world eagerly await the outcome of Fernandez’s matches. Her journey is a testament to resilience, skill, and the importance of finding moments of joy even amid fierce competition. Whether donning an avocado costume or leading her team on the court, Leylah Fernandez embodies the spirit of a champion—one who brings both strength and a touch of humor to the sport she loves. As she and Team Canada take on the world’s best, all eyes will be on the talented young star to see if she can guide her team to another unforgettable victory.