DC Open Final: Leylah Fernandez vs. Anna Kalinskaya
In Washington, Leylah Fernandez and Anna Kalinskaya are set to clash for the title at the DC Open, with both aiming for a significant milestone.
Fernandez’s Journey
Fernandez, a notable talent from Canada and the 2021 US Open runner-up, has already displayed her prowess in the tournament. She notched up an impressive performance in the semifinals where she defeated 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina. In a grueling match that lasted over three hours, Fernandez triumphed with a scoreline of 6-7 (2), 7-6 (3), 7-6 (3) and served 12 aces along the way.
Kalinskaya’s Challenge
On the other side, Kalinskaya, hailing from Russia, will be looking to secure her first WTA title in this final. She reached this point after a quicker semifinal match against Emma Raducanu, winning 6-4, 6-3 with the assistance of 14 precise backhand winners. Interestingly, Raducanu was the player who defeated Fernandez in the finals at Flushing Meadows four years ago.
Final Matchup Details
Both players enter the final unseeded, with Fernandez aged 22 and currently ranked 36th, while 26-year-old Kalinskaya holds the 48th rank. This Sunday marks Kalinskaya’s third final on the tour, although she has yet to secure a title, having lost both previous attempts last season.
In contrast, Fernandez is vying for her first title of the year and has a total of three championships under her belt, making this encounter crucial for both competitors. This match will be Fernandez’s seventh appearance in a career final, and it promises to be an exciting showdown on the hard court.
