2021 U.S. Opening: 19-year-old Leylah Fernandez continues her historic career; Emma Radacunu, 18, will meet in the final

Canadian Leylah Fernandez, 19, will lead her historic career in the U.S. Open final. World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka was Fernandez’s last victim as she defeated the teenager in three sets (7-6 (3), 4-6, 6-4) in Thursday’s semifinals to reach her first Grand Slam final.

After starting the tournament without qualifying, Fernandez in 73rd place shocked the world by defeating the top five of defending champions Naomi Osaka and Elina Svitolina, along with former Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerbe. Fernandez was the youngest woman to take the top five spots since 17-year-old Serena Williams in 1999.

Fernandez beat the Belarusian Sabalenka to give him his third impressive victory against the top five. It was a great victory for Fernandez and her country, as the only other Canadian woman to reach the US Open individual final in 2019 was Bianca Andreescu.

Fernandez will face 18-year-old British Emma Radacunu and Greek No. 17 Maria Sakkari, who angered No. 17 in Saturday’s final. Raducanu, who has been as impressive as Fernandez, has already beaten four of his first 50 opponents at Flushing Meadows.

After the semifinal victory, Fernandez admitted to helping the people of New York win.

“They encouraged me, and they never gave up,” Fernandez said. “They never gave up on me. They fought for me. And thanks to you, I was able to win.”

Sabalenka, the leader in WTA victories this year, entered the match as a significant favorite. He was looking for his first Grand Slam final, but Fernandez had other plans.

“I don’t know how I did that,” Fernandez said when asked to describe how he won.

The U.S. Open women’s singles final will be held on Saturday at 4 p.m.