Leylah Fernandez Talks Up Venus Williams After US Open Win

Leylah Fernandez expressed her admiration for Venus Williams following their doubles win at the US Open on Saturday.

The duo triumphed against Eli Hosomi and Ulricke Eikeli with a score of 7-6 (1), 6-1. After the match, Fernandez described Williams as “inspired” and thanked her partner for the motivation they shared.

“She’s that kind of inspiration,” Fernandez noted, reflecting on the crowd’s energy. “You motivated me to continue this journey through the ups and downs. It’s fantastic to have fun and play because you love the sport. That’s inspiration.”

“This is your moment too, and I truly appreciate everything you’ve done,” she added.

Although Williams has faced challenges in singles competition, she has maintained a strong performance in doubles with Fernandez, particularly after their recent loss to Carolina Man Verba earlier in the week.

Fernandez felt ecstatic about partnering with Williams, comparing her feelings to being “a kid on Christmas Day.” She said, “I was just so happy and excited, I don’t think I stopped smiling all night and even the next morning.”

The pair will go up against No. 6 seed Lyudmila Kichenok and Ellen Perez in the first round of doubles, as Williams has expressed her delight in teaming up with Fernandez, whom she described as “the best partner I’ve played with—except for Serena.”

Williams noted that their shared determination during matches has contributed significantly to their success. “Our energy really clicked. We were focused and dialed in,” she said, highlighting the infectious joy she has experienced on the court.

Fernandez also mentioned being surprised to be compared to Serena Williams, saying, “That’s probably the biggest compliment I’ve ever received. I feel as if there are big shoes that need to be filled.”

Post-match, Williams reflected on a heated exchange involving Taylor Townsend and Jelena Ostapenko earlier in the week, commending Townsend’s composure during the conflict.

“I thought Taylor handled it remarkably. She showed real class,” Williams remarked, referencing how Townsend approached the situation with grace, particularly as a mother handling such moments.

Ostapenko later apologized for her remarks directed at Townsend, explaining that, as English isn’t her first language, her words didn’t come out as she had intended.