Leylah Fernandez in tears as she opens up on personal tragedy after Pan Pacific Final loss to Diana Shnaider
Tennis365 • • sports
Key Points:
- Leylah Fernandez was emotional after losing the Pan Pacific Open final to Diana Shnaider, paying tribute to her recently deceased grandfather during her post-match speech.
- Shnaider won the match 6-4, 5-7, 6-2, securing her first title of the season and her sixth WTA career title, which boosted her ranking to a career-high No. 11.
- Fernandez mounted a strong comeback in the second set but ultimately fell short, though her performance helped her rise to No. 19 in the WTA rankings after consecutive finals appearances.
- Both players expressed mutual respect and gratitude, with Shnaider thanking her coach and family, and Fernandez acknowledging her coach, team, fans, and family support amid her personal loss.
- The match highlighted the competitive spirit of both athletes and marked an emotional moment for Fernandez as she balanced professional achievement with personal grief.
