(Seoul) Leylah Fernandez advanced to her first final in 19 months with a 6-2, 7-5 win over Anna Blinkova in Hong Kong on Saturday.
The 21-year-old from Laval sealed the victory with her fourth break, against the 37th racket in the world.
A finalist in New York in 2021, Fernandez won in 78 minutes.
“The match was extremely difficult,” said the Quebecer, 60th in the WTA. Anna is a great player, very powerful, and she came with a lot of confidence. In the first set I played well, in the second she hit more shots and she was very aggressive.
“I just tried to stay calm. I remembered my coach’s words: “It’s a battle so just enjoy the moment. Have fun and put on a show for everyone”. »
Fernandez last played in a final in March 2022 in Monterrey, where she triumphed.
Her opponent in the final round will be the Czech Katerina Siniakova, 85th in the world. She dismissed Martina Trevisan 6-4, 6-2.
Siniakova has four career titles, the most recent in July, in Hamburg.
Fernandez beat Siniakova in straight sets at Roland Garros last year, in their only meeting.
Jessica Pegula advanced to the Korean Open final by defeating Yanina Wickmayer 6-4, 6-3.
A late break in the first set gave the American the advantage, then she led 4-1 in the second.
“Being half South Korean, I will always be able to say that I made it to the final here,” Pegula said. I hope to win but it’s still an honor, so I’m really happy. »
Pegula was champion in Montreal and Tokyo this year.
Fourth in the world, Pegula will face Yuan Yue in the final, who defeated Emina Bektas 6-7 (3), 6-4, 6-2.