Two generations of tennis excellence are set to collide in Osaka. On one side stands 23-year-old Canadian Leylah Fernandez, sharp, spirited, and back in form. On the other, 35-year-old Romanian Sorana Cirstea, still proving that precision and poise can outlast youth. Their semifinal at the WTA 250 Japan Open promises a compelling duel between fearless aggression and veteran savvy.
Leylah Fernandez Finding Her Rhythm Again
It’s been a crisp and confident week for Fernandez, the No. 4 seed and world No. 27. The 2021 US Open finalist has been in full command, dropping no sets against Hailey Baptiste, Dalma Gálfi, and Rebecca Šrámková. Her serve has been a steady weapon—winning over 70% of first-serve points—while her signature fighting spirit has returned in full flow.
This is Fernandez’s second semifinal of the season after lifting the WTA 500 DC Open trophy in August. With her aggressive lefty forehand clicking and movement as sharp as ever, she’s now within striking distance of her eighth career final.
Cirstea’s Veteran Craftsmanship Endures
Standing in her way is Sorana Cirstea, world No. 51, who continues to age like fine wine. The Romanian has powered past Moyuka Uchijima, Katie Boulter, and Viktorija Golubic to reach her second semifinal of 2025. Cirstea’s baseline timing and composure under pressure remain her trademarks—attributes that have kept her inside the Top 100 alongside fellow 30-something stalwarts Laura Siegemund and Tatjana Maria.
The 35-year-old is chasing her eighth career final, proving once again that consistency and experience can still hold firm against the new wave of power players.
What to Expect:
A tactical test wrapped in intensity. Fernandez will look to dictate with pace and court coverage, while Cirstea aims to disrupt her rhythm with variety and placement—or she could choose to go toe-to-toe with Leylah in a battle of pace. Both know this is a golden opportunity to close out the season strong.