At just 22 years old, Leylah Fernandez has already carved out a remarkable career on the professional tennis circuit. The Canadian tennis prodigy, known for her fiery left-handed game and captivating presence, made headlines in 2021 when she reached the US Open final as a teenager, defeating top-tier players like Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka along the way. Now, as she prepares to compete in her hometown at the National Bank Open in Montréal, Fernandez is making waves off the court with a bold and charming announcement: she’s ready to go on her very first date and is inviting potential suitors to slide into her Instagram DMs.
Fernandez’s decision to publicly seek a date came as a delightful surprise to fans and the tennis community alike. The announcement, made via her Instagram, was both earnest and playful, reflecting the young athlete’s approachable and down-to-earth personality. “This will be fun, right?” she wrote, reassuring her followers that her offer was genuine. The move has sparked a flurry of responses, with Fernandez revealing that she received over 100 messages within the first day alone. “I’ve got a lot of options,” she exclaimed with a smile after her first-round victory at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, D.C. The overwhelming response underscores her popularity, not just as a tennis star but as a relatable figure navigating the complexities of young adulthood under the spotlight.
The inspiration for this unconventional approach to dating stemmed from a candid conversation with her father and coach, Jorge Fernandez, earlier this summer. “My dad point blank asked me if I’d gone on a date yet, and I told him I hadn’t,” Fernandez shared, laughing as she recounted the moment. “I’ve never really had the time, and no one’s really asked me, which, I don’t know why!” Her father’s question prompted her to reflect on her life beyond the tennis court, where her demanding schedule of training, tournaments, and travel has left little room for romance. As a professional athlete, Fernandez’s lifestyle is a whirlwind of practices, matches, and global tours, making traditional dating a challenge. Her openness about this struggle resonates with many young athletes who balance intense careers with personal aspirations.
Fernandez’s announcement isn’t just about finding a date; it’s a glimpse into the challenges elite athletes face in their personal lives. “I got responses from other athletes, including ones I went to the Olympics with, and they told me, ‘I know how you feel,’ or, ‘When I was 22, I hadn’t gone on a date yet, either,’” she shared. These messages have been a source of comfort, reminding her that she’s not alone in navigating the demands of a high-profile career. “At this age, we’re all either studying or going to sports competitions, so reading those messages not only makes me feel better and like I’m not the odd one out, but it’s also pretty cool that we’re able to have those conversations together,” she added. Her vulnerability has struck a chord, highlighting the universal challenges of finding connection amidst a hectic schedule.
The tennis star’s approach echoes a similar move by fellow Canadian player Eugenie Bouchard, who once took a fan on a date after a playful Twitter exchange. Bouchard, who is winding down her career and plans to play her final tournament in Montréal, has expressed support for Fernandez’s quest. “I personally love interacting with fans, and I think they appreciate that I do that,” Bouchard told reporters after a doubles match. Fernandez’s initiative, however, comes with a lighthearted caveat: any potential date must first meet her father, Jorge, who has been a pivotal figure in her life and career. This condition adds a touch of familial warmth to her modern approach, blending old-school values with a contemporary flair.
Fernandez’s decision to open her DMs is also inclusive, as she didn’t specify whether she’s seeking a male or female partner, prompting responses from a diverse array of admirers. This openness has sparked excitement, particularly among fans who appreciate her progressive stance. “So have at it, ladies! You just never know,” one commenter enthused, reflecting the inclusive spirit of her call for connection. Fernandez has promised to keep fans updated on her dating journey, though she’s made it clear that she’s not aiming for a dramatic, reality-show-style spectacle. Instead, she’s looking for a simple, one-hour date in Montréal—a chance to connect, share a conversation, and see if there’s mutual interest.
As Fernandez prepares for the National Bank Open, her focus remains on her game, fresh off a commanding 6-1, 6-2 victory over Anna Kalinskaya in the DC Open final, marking her fourth career title and first at a WTA 500 event. Yet, her willingness to embrace this personal milestone alongside her professional achievements showcases her multifaceted nature. “I’m a tennis player, but that’s not all I am,” she said, emphasizing her desire to explore life beyond the court. Whether she finds a spark in Montréal or simply enjoys the process, Fernandez’s bold move is a testament to her courage, both as an athlete and as a young woman ready to take a chance on love.*
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