Leylah Fernandez’s winning streak in Japan continues as the 23-year-old Canadian triumphed over Maria Sakkari in the opening round of the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo. Fernandez claimed victory after a two-hour, two-minute battle, defeating the 30-year-old Greek qualifier 7-6 (5), 6-4. She showcased her skills with two aces, one double fault, 47 unforced errors, and 32 winners during the match. Fernandez maintained a solid performance, winning 58% of her first serve points and 50% of her second serve points. She successfully saved six out of 11 break points and converted six out of 10 break points.
In another match, Victoria Mboko from Toronto outplayed Bianca Andreescu from Mississauga in an intense all-Ontario showdown, winning 6-3, 6-3 in 73 minutes. Andreescu committed 19 unforced errors, while Mboko had 18. Mboko’s game included three double faults, one ace, and 21 winners. The Toronto player dominated by winning 77% of her first serve points and 50% of her second serve points. She managed to secure three out of eight return games.
Denis Shapovalov progressed to the second round of the Swiss Indoors tennis tournament after a tough battle against Marcos Giron of the United States, securing a 6-7 (3), 6-0, 7-6 (4) victory. Despite facing five double faults, Shapovalov showcased his strength with 13 aces and successfully converted five out of eight break-point opportunities. Giron struggled to break Shapovalov’s serve, managing to do so only twice out of seven chances. Shapovalov, who recently reached the semifinals at the Stockholm Open, will face lucky loser Valentin Royer of France in his next match. Shapovalov holds a 2-3 career record against Giron.
The upcoming action at the ATP 500 tournament will feature a highly anticipated all-Montreal clash between fifth-seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime and Gabriel Diallo on Wednesday.