"Thinking of you" - Leylah Fernandez's father sends supportive message ahead of Indian Wells 2023 campaign
Leylah Fernandez's father, Jorge, sent her a supportive video message ahead of her Indian Wells campaign. And the young Canadian was so happy with the gesture that she decided to share the video with her followers.
Fernandez, seeded 30th at Indian Wells, has received a bye in the first round. She will also play doubles alongside Taylor Townsend at the tournament.
In the video, Fernandez's father can be seen using a jump rope while reminding his daughter not to forget where she learned the skill of skipping.
"Thinking of you. Indian Wells. Remember where you got that skip from," Jorge says.
The 2021 US open runner-up took to Instagram to share the video with her fans.
"A message from my Papi," she wrote.
Injury and bad form negatively impacted Fernandez's ranking in 2022, and unfortunately for her the trend has continued this season as well. The World No. 49 was ousted in the second round of the Australian Open and had early exits in Abu Dhabi and Dubai as well.
Indian Wells presents a crucial opportunity for Fernandez to turn the tide. In 2022 she made it to the Round of 16, where she was beaten by Paula Badosa.
Fernandez will face the winner of the match between Emma Navarro and Caty McNally in the second round.
Leylah Fernandez lets fans in on some of her happiest memories with her father
Last month, Leylah Fernandez delighted her fans by sharing childhood photos that showcased her close relationship with her father, Jorge. The heartwarming images capture the special bond between the two and led to an outpouring of love and admiration from her followers.
In the first picture, Fernandez can be seen flashing a delightful smile, while the second depicts her sitting on her father's lap, bawling.
Fernandez joked that the pictures showcased her "versatility."
The Canadian has frequently expressed gratitude towards her parents for their unwavering support over the years, which has helped her reach her current level of success.