Fernandez beats Valentova in three sets to win singles crown at Japan Open

By Canadian Press on October 18, 2025.

OSAKA — Canadian Leylah Fernandez got off to a quick start and then had to battle to defeat Tereza Valentova of Czechia 6-0, 5-7, 6-3 in the championship final of the Japan Women’s Open on Saturday night.

The 23-year-old Fernandez, of Laval, Que., needed only 28 minutes to win the first set, but then needed almost two more hours to close it out as the 18-year-old Valentova found her game at the Utsubo Tennis Center.

Fernandez finished with three aces, seven winners and only four unforced errors and two double faults.

The Canadian won 43 points while receiving, compared to Valentova’s 31.

Fernandez had a 70 per cent win percentage on first serve and 46 per cent on second serve. She saved five of nine break points, while Valentova saved nine of 16.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 18, 2025.

The Canadian Press