Leylah Fernandez secures first win of 2026 in Abu Dhabi

No. 6 seed Leylah Fernandez defeated lucky loser Chloe Paquet in the first round of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, dropping just three games in a dominant performance. This victory ends a four-match losing streak for the Canadian player. It marks her first win since October 2025.

Leylah Fernandez, seeded sixth in the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, faced lucky loser Chloe Paquet in the tournament's opening round. The match showcased Fernandez's strong form as she overwhelmed her opponent, conceding only three games throughout the encounter. This straightforward win provides a much-needed boost for Fernandez, who had been struggling with a four-match losing streak prior to this event.

The victory is Fernandez's first since October 2025, signaling a potential turnaround in her season. As a key player on the WTA Tour, Fernandez's performance in Abu Dhabi highlights her resilience and skill on the court. The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open continues with other matches, but Fernandez's result sets a positive tone for her campaign in the UAE.

No further details on the exact score were available, but the lopsided nature of the match underscores Paquet's challenge as a lucky loser entering the main draw.

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