Leylah Fernandez Advances in the 2023 Prudential Hong Kong Open

Leylah Fernandez, the second seed and 2023 Prudential Hong Kong Open champion, began her tournament with a decisive victory over China's Wang Xiyu, winning in straight sets, 6-1, 6-4. The match took place at the Victoria Park Tennis Stadium and lasted one hour and 25 minutes. Fernandez, currently ranked world No. 22, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus throughout the match, acknowledging that concentration can waver during play. “I was just pretty proud of myself that today, when it did happen, when I lost the break … that I stayed positive and calm,” she stated.

South China Morning PostWTA Hong Kong Best Bets Including Xiyu Wang vs Leylah FernandezCanada's Fernandez, Mboko reach Round of 16 at Hong Kong OpenIn pics: women's singles round of 32 matches at WTA Hong Kong OpenWTA Rankings: Victoria Mboko set for new milestone and edges closer to Canadian No 1 prize

Alongside Fernandez, Canada's Victoria Mboko also advanced to the second round after a challenging match against Australia's Talia Gibson. Mboko, the tournament's third seed, rallied from a set down to win 6-7 (2), 6-1, 6-4, showcasing her powerful serve with 19 aces. The 19-year-old's victory marks a significant milestone in her career, as she continues to climb the WTA rankings, now positioned within the top 20.

Canada's Fernandez, Mboko reach Round of 16 at Hong Kong Open

Following their respective victories, Leylah Fernandez is set to face Germany's Eva Lys in the next round, while Victoria Mboko will compete against either Britain's Katie Boulter or Alexandra Eala of the Philippines. Both Canadian players are vying for the top spot in Canadian tennis rankings, with Fernandez needing to win the tournament to reclaim her position from Mboko.

WTA Rankings: Victoria Mboko set for new milestone and edges closer to Canadian No 1 prize

Fernandez expressed her determination to improve her focus, stating, “I’m still trying to figure that out, how to not lose concentration in certain moments.” Meanwhile, Mboko's recent performances have been highlighted as a significant achievement, as she aims to solidify her position among the top Canadian players.

WTA Rankings: Victoria Mboko set for new milestone and edges closer to Canadian No 1 prize

While both players have received praise for their performances, there are concerns regarding the consistency of their focus during matches. Critics suggest that maintaining high levels of concentration is crucial for success in high-stakes tournaments like the Hong Kong Open.

In pics: women's singles round of 32 matches at WTA Hong Kong Open

• “Photo: Eugene Lee “I was listening to my coach’s instructions and just kind of stayed in the present moment.” — Leylah Fernandez

South China Morning Post

• “I’m still trying to figure that out, how to not lose concentration in certain moments,” — Leylah Fernandez

South China Morning Post

As the tournament progresses, both Leylah Fernandez and Victoria Mboko are positioned to make significant impacts, with their performances closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

WTA Rankings: Victoria Mboko set for new milestone and edges closer to Canadian No 1 prize