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Leylah Fernandez Climbs to Highest WTA Ranking in 4 Years After Heartbreaking Family Loss

Leylah Fernandez rebounded to world No. 18 in the WTA rankings on Nov.

2, her highest spot since August 2022, after a runner‑up finish at the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo. The 24‑year‑old amassed 2,201 points, climbing five places from No.

23 and moving ahead of fellow Canadian Victoria Mboko. In Tokyo she defeated Elise Mertens and Kamilla Rakhimova, received a quarter‑final walkover from world No.

1 Elena Rybakina, and then pushed Diana Shnaider to three sets in the final, falling 6‑4, 5‑7, 6‑2.

Fernandez revealed that her Filipino grandfather had died the day before the final, and she paid an emotional tribute during the trophy ceremony, saying his memory gave her strength after falling behind 4‑0 in the second set. The poignant moment underscored her determination despite the loss, marking a remarkable late‑season surge that returned her to the sport’s elite.

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