Third Seed Fernandez Withdraws from Hong Kong Open Due to Arm Injury
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago4 MIN
Summary
The Prudential Hong Kong Open 2026 faced a major disappointment on Wednesday, November 4, as Canadian star Leylah Fernandez (費蘭迪絲), the tournament's third seed and world No.18, announced her withdrawal due to an arm injury. The popular player, who was scheduled to face American former Grand Slam champion Sofia Kenin (簡倫) in the opening round, was forced out before the match could take place. Her withdrawal marks the end of what would have been a highly anticipated first-round clash at Victoria Park Tennis Stadium.
Key Points
- Fernandez, the world No.18 and third seed, withdrew from the Hong Kong Open on November 4 due to an arm injury
- The Canadian star had been scheduled to face American former Grand Slam winner Sofia Kenin in the opening round
- Lucky loser Mika Stojsavljevic will replace Fernandez in the draw to face Kenin instead
- Fernandez won the Hong Kong Open women's singles title in 2023 and reached the semifinals in the past two consecutive years
- She was seen practicing at Victoria Park courts on Tuesday, November 3, before announcing her withdrawal
Why It Matters
This withdrawal represents a significant blow to the tournament's prestige, as Fernandez has been one of the event's most successful and popular performers in recent years. Her absence not only removes a marquee player from the draw but also deprives Hong Kong fans of the opportunity to see a former champion compete live at Victoria Park.