Leylah Fernandez Exits San Diego Match Due to Shoulder Injury
Canadian tennis star Leylah Fernandez faced a disappointing exit from the San Diego Open after retiring from her second-round match against Sofia Kenin due to a shoulder injury. The 21-year-old, who has been on the rise since her breakout performance at the 2021 US Open, struggled with the injury throughout the match, ultimately forcing her to withdraw.
Fernandez started the contest with determination, showcasing her trademark resilience. However, as the match progressed, it became increasingly evident that she was hampered by pain in her shoulder. Despite her efforts to push through, the discomfort proved too significant, and she made the difficult decision to retire while trailing in the second set.
The injury is particularly concerning for Fernandez as she prepares for the upcoming tournament season. Known for her aggressive baseline play and athleticism, shoulder issues can significantly impact her game, especially her serve and groundstrokes.
Following the match, Fernandez expressed her disappointment but emphasized her commitment to recovery. “It’s never easy to leave a match like this, especially when you’ve worked so hard to compete,” she said. “I’ll take the necessary time to recover and come back stronger.”
This setback adds to a challenging year for Fernandez, who has been striving to regain her form after battling injuries and inconsistent results on the WTA Tour. Her exit from the San Diego Open is a stark reminder of the physical demands of professional tennis.
As fans and analysts look ahead, there are questions about how this injury will affect her upcoming schedule. With major tournaments on the horizon, including the WTA Finals, Fernandez will need to prioritize her health to ensure she can compete at her best.
In the meantime, her performance continues to inspire many young athletes in Canada and beyond. With her talent and determination, there is hope that she will bounce back from this setback and return to the court ready to make an impact.