Fil-Canadian tennis ace Leylah Fernandez starts strong in Paris Olympics
Leylah Fernandez / leylahannietennis/Instagram
As the 2024 Paris Olympics unfold, Filipino Canadian athletes are making a notable impact on the global stage. Among them is swimmer Kayla Sanchez, who has embraced a new chapter in her Olympic journey by representing the Philippines after previously competing for Canada.
Sanchez, a two-time medal winner at the Tokyo Olympics, is now carrying a different flag as she reconnects with her heritage.
“It has always been on my mind being able to represent the Philippines,” the 23-year-old Sanchez told PlayItRight TV. “It is a part of my heritage.”
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Joining Sanchez in Paris is fellow Filipino Canadian Leylah Fernandez, who is competing in lawn tennis. This marks Fernandez’s second appearance at the Olympic Games. In Tokyo, she fought hard through the first round before being edged out by Czech player Barbora Krejcikova.
Fernandez took to Instagram to share her excitement about representing Canada once again, writing, “I always leave it all out on the court, but when it’s for Canada, it’s something else!!! See you in the second round!!” Her post was accompanied by the French phrase “Premier match aux couleurs du Canada,” reflecting her pride and commitment.
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Fernandez has successfully navigated her first-round singles match, a grueling three-set battle, with scores of 6-1, 4-6, 6-2. Seeded 16th in singles, her next challenge is against Cristina Busca of Spain, scheduled to be the first match on Monday. If she advances, Fernandez will face either Angelique Kerber of Germany or Jaqueline Adina Cristian of Romania in the third round.
In addition to singles, Fernandez is competing in doubles, where she is seeded 5th and will partner with Gabriela Dabrowski. Their first-round match is against France’s Clara Burel and Varvara Gracheva. If they advance, they could face either Mirra Andreeva and Diana Shnaider of Russia or Ajla Tomljanovic and Olivia Gadecki of Australia in the next round.
As these Filipino Canadian athletes continue to compete, their dedication and performances are inspiring fans and highlighting the rich talent emerging from their dual heritage.
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