Leylah Fernández, to put Sharapova's advice into practice in Indian Wells

Canadian tennis player Leylah Fernández, who lost to Emma Raducanu in the US Open final, said Tuesday that she has received several tips from five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova and that he can't wait to get back on the slopes.

A day after losing to Emma Raducanu in the US Open final, Fernández attended the MET's annual gala in New York, where she had the opportunity to speak with Sharapova. “He gave me very good advice”, Fernandez, 19, told reporters ahead of his return to competition this week in Indian Wells for the BNP Paribas Open. “I am not going to tell you any because it is something very personal for me. She is an incredible person. She shared her own experience with me. and the way he was able to bounce back and he's a great person and a great inspiration to look at. “

Fernández won the Monterrey Open in March but made a big leap in her game in New York, where she defeated defending champion Naomi Osaka, three-time Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber and world number 2 Aryna Sabalenka. on his way to the finals. Against Raducanu, 18, who came from the previous one and was playing his second Grand Slam, Fernández failed with his serve to fall in straight sets but still showed his strength.

Since then, Fernández has faced a huge demand for applications after the US Open but thanks to her team she remains focused on tennis. “I feel very lucky to have a great team by my side to focus on my tennis and not be overwhelmed by everything that is happening. To be honest, I can't wait to get back on a tennis court. and compete again. “

The Canadian has jumped to 28th place in the WTA rankings and is the 23rd seed in Indian Wells, where she will be exempt from playing the first round in an event that many consider 'the fifth Grand Slam'. However, his final at the US Open has also opened the door to other off-court events, such as the Met Gala. “It was quite an experience to get ready, put on makeup, fix my hair and put on heels for the first time. It was difficult to walk at first. When I was going up the stairs all I thought was not to fall.”