Hot shot: An array of spins … and Leylah Fernandez’s perfect lob

Leylah Fernandez continues to dazzle on the tennis court, not just with her grit and consistency, but with her flair for the spectacular. In one of the highlight-reel moments that had fans and commentators buzzing, Fernandez pulled off a jaw-dropping lob that exemplified her remarkable court vision and touch. The rally began with both players exchanging sharp angles and vicious topspin, demonstrating the modern game’s relentless pace. Fernandez, known for her agile footwork and aggressive court positioning, absorbed the pressure and used her opponent’s pace against them.

What made this particular moment stand out was the variety of spins and shot selection Fernandez employed leading up to the lob. She neutralized a deep forehand with a slicing backhand that floated just above the net. Then, after chasing down a sharply angled cross-court shot, she responded with a high-bouncing topspin drive that forced her opponent to retreat. With the crowd already rising in anticipation, Fernandez used the next short ball as the perfect opportunity to surprise everyone.

Instead of continuing the baseline exchange or going for a passing shot, she executed an audacious lob with pinpoint accuracy. The ball soared just out of reach, curling back inside the baseline with a perfect arc. Her opponent could only watch as the ball kissed the line. It wasn’t just the placement that was remarkable—it was the disguise. Fernandez had sold the shot with the same body positioning she often uses for a forehand drive, making the last-second change even more effective.

This moment was a snapshot of what makes Fernandez such a dangerous and entertaining player. She combines the old-school art of variety and deception with the athleticism and shot tolerance of the modern era. Her ability to seamlessly mix topspin, slice, and drop shots within a single rally keeps opponents guessing and fans enthralled.

Moments like this are why Leylah Fernandez remains one of the most compelling players on the WTA Tour. She’s not only a competitor but an artist in motion—able to turn defense into offense and craft winners with creativity as much as power. Her perfect lob will live on as one of the most talked-about shots of the season, a testament to her instinct, imagination, and flair under pressure.