Leylah Fernandez continues her impressive run in the America-based Grand Slam after defeating World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, 7-6(3), 4-6, 6-4, officially entering the finals of the 2021 US Open Women's at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center in New York City, Friday (Manila time).

 

Fernandez, who is 73rd in the world rankings, didn't just beat any scrubs in the US Open to advance in the finals.

 

The 19-year old just victimized four-time Grand Slam winner and defending champion Naomi Osaka, three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber, and fifth-seeded Elina Svitolina.

 

"I really wanted to be in the finals. I fought for every point. I don't know how I got the last point in, but I'm glad to be in the finals," said Fernandez.

 

Fernandez, who is of Filipino descent, will face 18-year-old Briton Emma Raducanu in the finals.

 

Sabalenka made sure that Fernandez will bring the fight, as the Belarusian blasted to a 3-0 lead in the first set. But the Canadian would tie the game at 4-4, en route to a 7-6 finish.

 

In the second set, Sabalenka forcde a 4-6 decider with a forehand volley.

 

The third set proved to be really tight, even reaching to a tiebreak, but Fernandez stay composed under pressure and scored a game-winning important serve.