Leylah Fernandez recently started watching a hockey-related web series called “Heated Rivalry.” She grabbed the opportunity to watch the show after making her appearance at the 2026 Australian Open.
The Canadian tennis star lost to Indonesia’s Janice Tjen in the first round in Melbourne on January 20. Following the setback, Fernandez distracted herself by enjoying the series with two of her friends. One of her friends was curious about the tennis player’s sudden liking for hockey and asked:
“All of a sudden, she is into hockey.”
“Why is that?” another friend added.
The Canadian tennis player replied:
“It’s something different. Fiction kind of, should be good.”
Her friend asked who recommended the show.
“TikTok,” Leylah said.
The first friend was confused about the sports drama series, questioning whether it is a love drama or purely hockey-based.
“How long does that last? Are these two in love or…? Oh that’s what it is,” he said. “30 secs and he is already tired. Months go by really fast. I’m not sure hockey guys watch this show. I thought we were watching a hockey movie. This is not hockey.”
He then asked:
“They really recommended this show?”
Fernandez laughed and said:
“I just wanted to see your reactions.”
Watch the video here.
Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff have also expressed their feelings for the show. While the Japanese star was left in awe, Gauff gave it a perfect score.
“I Love How Rowdy They Got” – Leylah Fernandez Opens Up on Competing at Australian Open
Leylah Fernandez recently spoke about the spectators at the 2026 Australian Open, referring to them as “rowdy.” She compared the atmosphere to the US Open, saying that the Australian fans are more vibrant and enthusiastic. She further mentioned that for a few moments, she took her mind off the match and enjoyed the environment.
“It was a lot of fun,” said Fernandez. “My goodness, I keep hearing how the crowd here in the AO is very rowdy. It’s a party, and finally I have the chance to experience it, and I also get the chance to kind of compare it to the US Open. It’s just very electric. I love this crowd. I love how rowdy they got and how motivating they [were]. I was just excited to play the next point. I totally forgot the score sometimes and just enjoyed my time with them.” (via WTA Tennis)
Leylah Fernandez also competed in the mixed doubles event with Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios. The duo lost to Anna Danilina and James Tracy in the second round.
