TORONTO | The palpable bond between the Fernandez sisters was realized yesterday on the Toronto pitch, where Leylah and Bianca defeated two veteran opponents, Belgium’s Kirsten Flipkens and Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo, 6-4 and 6-1.
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For Bianca, a year junior in the 14th world rankings, it was the first win in the WTA.
At 18, she was ranked 667th and almost exclusively attended ITF events in the antechambers of major professional circles.
“For me it is something very special [de remporter ce premier gain], said Bianca, trilingual like her sister, at a press conference. I’ve been working a lot on my game and I like having my sister by my side because she knows how to put my mind at ease. »
“She is an inspiration to me. And also my shield [au filet en double] ! she added laughing. Achieving this with her is a dream come true. »
“She’s going to make me cry,” Leylah replied, sitting down next to her. No, I’m just really glad she thinks that about me. I try to be a role model for her. »
Unpredictable, professional
Accomplices, they said. And while the two girls don’t share the same trajectory in the classification at the moment, they say they inspire each other in their progress.
“Bianca is an unpredictable player. She always keeps me on my toes in doubles. It’s the same in singles, the opponent never knows what she’s doing,” emphasized Leylah.
“Leylah is extremely professional. She always fulfills what is asked of her, emphasized Bianca for her part. He is also a person who is always cheerful. I’m pretty calm, so her personality raises my energy level. »
Both girls will continue their journey today in doubles. The oldest will contest her singles match against Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia, 24th in the world rankings.