‘Never thought a little girl and a boy from Montreal will reach the semifinals of the US Open at the same time,’ says Felix Auger Aliassime

‘Never thought a little girl and a boy from Montreal will reach the semifinals of the US Open at the same time,’ says Felix Auger Aliassime

Leylah Fernandez and Felix-Auger Aliassime

While several youngsters from both the men’s and women’s section have impressed at the 2021 US Open, the Canadian pair of Felix Auger Aliassime and Leylah Fernandez have perhaps left an indelible mark already with their stunning performance.

Both the Canadian youngsters have made into their maiden Grand Slam semifinals and are only a few steps away from creating history in New York. While Felix beat Spaniard teenager Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals, Fernandez overcame the daunting challenge of Tokyo Games gold medalist, Elina Svitolina.

While the 21-year-old Felix showed glimpses of his talent by reaching the quarterfinals of the 2021 Wimbledon Championships, the southpaw Fernandez’s semifinal qualification has been a revelation in New York this year.

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Speaking about the excitement about two Canadian youngsters making an impact at the final Slam of the year, Felix said, “Yeah, it’s great. It’s great for Canada,” It’s great for Quebec. We’re both born in Montreal. I mean, I never thought a day like this would come. Both a little girl and a little boy from Montreal, both at the same time in the semifinals of the US Open. It’s special for us. I hope the people back home appreciate the moment also. We do a lot.”

As tennis would be aware, Felix is also coached by Rafael Nadal’s uncle and former coach Toni Nadal. The Spanish coach has been working with the Canadian youngster since the end of 2020. The Montreal born player also explained how Toni’s invaluable tips and influence has helped him develop his game.

Felix Auger Aliassime, Toni Nadal
Felix Auger Aliassime, Toni Nadal

“I think it was a good decision for me. I think he’s helped me improve maybe the consistency of my game, the quality of my movement, my focus. Mainly I think the big thing overall is the belief and the confidence that he brings to myself and everybody involved in my team.”

Felix to face Medvedev in semis

Felix Auger Aliassime and Daniil Medvedev
Felix Auger Aliassime and Daniil Medvedev

Regardless of what happens from here on in New York, Felix is certain to be the World No.11 next Monday, when the update ATP rankings get released. If he can beat the World No.2 Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals at the US Open, then Felix also has a realistic chance of cracking into the top-10 for the very first time in his young career.

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