“My dad doesn’t look welcoming” – Leylah Fernandez reveals the truth behind shock dating offer to fans ahead of Canadian Open
Leylah Fernandez has provided an amusing and revealing insight into the inspiration behind her shocking dating offer to fans ahead of the Canadian Open, shedding light on her personal life and her father’s role. The 22-year-old Canadian tennis star, riding high after her Citi DC Open triumph on July 27, 2025, with a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Anna Kalinskaya, shared this story during a press conference ahead of the tournament, which began today, July 29, 2025, in Montreal. Fernandez, who has never been on a date due to her intense tennis focus, explained that the idea emerged from a candid conversation with her father and coach, Jorge. She recounted with a chuckle, “My dad point-blank asked me if I’d gone on a date yet, and I told him I hadn’t. I’ve never really had the time, and no one’s really asked me, which I don’t know why!” This prompted Jorge to suggest she take matters into her own hands by inviting fans to connect, though with a firm condition.
Fernandez humorously addressed a potential deterrent, saying, “A lot of people think I’m very focused in tennis, and I am. Sometimes they think, okay, I can’t approach her and ask her out, and it doesn’t help that also my dad doesn’t look that welcoming. He’s very welcoming. Don’t get me wrong.” She clarified that Jorge’s initial stern appearance might intimidate potential suitors, despite his warm personality, influencing her decision to post an Instagram video on July 18, 2025, inviting fans to DM her for a one-hour date in Montreal, where she feels “at home and comfortable.” The offer, which drew over 100 responses within a day, came with Jorge’s stipulation that he must meet any date first, adding a protective layer to the initiative. After her Washington success, she told Tennis Channel she might delay the date to the tournament’s end, saying, “I told my date that we might have to push it back a little bit because I’m still in DC.”
This revelation highlights Fernandez’s blend of professionalism and playfulness, using her platform to explore personal growth while maintaining her tennis focus. Her father’s involvement—both as coach and gatekeeper—reflects a family dynamic that balances support with oversight, a trait evident in her career turnaround, including her fourth WTA title. As she prepares for her opening match against a qualifier at 02:50 PM WAT on July 29, 2025, this candid admission has captivated the tennis world, turning a light-hearted experiment into a widely discussed narrative. Fans on X have reacted with amusement, with @LeylahFans noting, “Leylah’s dad as the bouncer—love this story!” and @TennisLife247 adding, “Hilarious and bold—can’t wait for the date update!” This moment showcases Fernandez’s authenticity, bridging her on-court success with an off-court adventure.
