Leylah Fernandez reveals a ‘red flag’ she is trying to avoid as she gears up for potential first date in Montreal during Canadian Open

Leylah Fernandez has revealed a “red flag” she is keen to avoid as she prepares for a potential first date during the Canadian Open in Montreal, offering a glimpse into her cautious approach to romance. The 22-year-old Canadian tennis star, who recently won the Citi DC Open title on July 27, 2025, with a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Anna Kalinskaya, made headlines earlier this month with a bold Instagram video inviting fans to join her for a one-hour date during the tournament, which begins today, July 29, 2025. In a recent interview, Fernandez disclosed that one major concern she’s wary of is suitors who might not respect her boundaries or those who could be overly focused on her tennis fame rather than a genuine connection. She explained that she’s looking to avoid individuals who might see the date as a “trophy opportunity” rather than a chance to build a mutual relationship, stating, “I want someone who’s interested in me, not just the tennis player.”

This revelation comes as Fernandez navigates her first foray into dating, admitting she has never been on a date before due to her demanding tennis schedule and lack of interest in dating apps. The idea stemmed from a conversation with her father and coach, Jorge, who suggested the public invitation, though he insisted on meeting any potential date first—a condition Fernandez supports as a safeguard. Her “red flag” reflects a desire for authenticity, especially given the overwhelming response of over 100 messages she received within the first day of her announcement. As she gears up for her opening match against a qualifier in Montreal, where she’ll feel “at home and comfortable,” this cautious stance suggests she’s approaching this new experience with the same strategic mindset she applies on court, aiming to filter out insincere advances while exploring personal growth alongside her professional resurgence.