Ekaterina Alexandrova Defeats Leylah Fernandez in US Open Thriller

Canadian Leylah Fernandez Falls in Round 1

Alexandrova Advances to Quarter-Finals

In a nail-biting Round 1 match at the 2023 US Open, Ekaterina Alexandrova emerged victorious over Leylah Fernandez, defeating the Canadian 7-6 (5), 6-3.

Fernandez, who upset world No. 2 Maria Sakkari on her 19th birthday just last year, looked poised to continue her strong run at Flushing Meadows. She claimed a 6-0 walkover in the first set, dominating the match early on.

However, Alexandrova, the world No. 21, fought back in the second set, breaking Fernandez's serve twice and winning 6-3. The third set was a hard-fought battle, with Alexandrova breaking Fernandez's serve again to secure a 7-6 (5) victory.

The loss is a setback for Fernandez, who was hoping to make a deep run at the tournament. Despite her impressive start to the match, she was unable to sustain her momentum against Alexandrova, who is known for her powerful serve and aggressive baseline play.

Alexandrova, on the other hand, advances to the quarter-finals, where she will face either Elina Svitolina or Jessica Pegula.