Canadian Open 2025: Fernandez criticises schedule after first-round loss in Montreal, two days after winning Washington title

Leylah Fernandez didn’t hold back after her first-round exit at the 2025 Canadian Open in Montreal. The 22-year-old Canadian star, who just lifted the trophy in Washington on Sunday, found herself back on court in less than 48 hours — and it didn’t go well. She lost her opening match in straight sets and made it clear afterward that she felt let down by the tournament schedule.

Fernandez, visibly frustrated during her post-match interview, pointed out that the quick turnaround from Washington to Montreal didn’t give her enough time to recover or prepare. “It’s disappointing,” she said. “I just won a title and didn’t get a proper chance to enjoy it or reset mentally and physically. That’s not how we should be treating players, especially heading into a big home event.”

For many fans, this hit home. Leylah is one of Canada’s biggest tennis hopes, and seeing her burned out so soon after a major win felt unfair. She fought hard in Washington, playing back-to-back matches under pressure, and then had to travel and compete again almost immediately — this time in front of a home crowd expecting her best.

Tennis schedules are notoriously tough, especially for players who go deep in tournaments. But Fernandez’s comments have reignited the debate around how much is too much. Should players be protected better? Should tournament organizers be more flexible with the draw? After all, tennis stars are human too — and fatigue doesn’t care how famous or in-form a player is.

Despite the loss, fans gave Leylah a warm ovation in Montreal. They understood. It wasn’t about a lack of effort. It was about a young champion running on empty, and speaking up about it. And in today’s sports world, where mental health and recovery are finally being taken seriously, her words matter.

Fernandez remains optimistic. “I’ll bounce back,” she said. “I love playing in Canada, and I’ll be ready for the next one.” And knowing her fighting spirit, no one doubts that.

For now, though, maybe it’s time the tennis world listened more closely to its players — especially when they’re giving everything they’ve got and still being asked for more.