Leylah Fernandez storms into Japan Open final after dominant win over Sorana Cirstea

Canadian star Leylah Fernandez booked her place in the Japan Open final on Saturday after defeating Romania’s Sorana Cirstea in a tense three-set semifinal clash.

The fourth-seeded Fernandez, who entered the tournament as the last remaining seed, prevailed 6-1, 2-6, 6-4 to reach her eighth career final. After a dominant opening set, Fernandez faced a strong comeback from Cirstea but regained control in the decider, breaking serve at 4-4 before holding her nerve to close out the match.

The 2021 U.S. Open runner-up will now face either Jaqueline Cristian or 18-year-old qualifier Tereza Valentova in Sunday’s final. Cristian advanced to the semifinals after top seed Naomi Osaka withdrew due to a left leg injury on Friday.

Fernandez, who last won a title at the WTA 500 D.C. Open, will aim to end her 2025 season on a high with a fifth career singles trophy.