Russia’s Diana Shnaider secured her first title of the year by defeating Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in a closely contested final at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo on Sunday. The world number 13 triumphed 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to claim the tournament crown, marking the sixth title of her professional career.

Following the victory, the 22-year-old Shnaider immediately called her mother to share the moment, expressing her joy in hearing her mother’s voice after the win. “I wanted to share a few moments with her right after winning a title,” Shnaider said. This title was her first since capturing the Monterrey Open in August of the previous year.

Shnaider appeared to be in control early, winning the first set and establishing a 4-0 lead in the second. However, Fernandez, ranked 23rd in the world, staged a comeback by winning the second set after displaying resilience and competitive tennis. Shnaider ultimately regained momentum in the third set, breaking Fernandez’s serve twice and converting her first match point to secure the championship.

“It was definitely a tight, close match,” Shnaider remarked. “It makes me even more happy that I was able to fight for the title and in the end win it.” Prior to the Tokyo final, she had reached four semi-finals this year but had not advanced further, making this victory an important milestone.

Fernandez came into the final with a strong recent record, having won 16 of her last 20 matches. Her recent achievements included a title at the Singapore Open and a runner-up finish at the Ningbo Open in China, where she lost to world number one Elena Rybakina. Despite struggles with her serve during the final—registering five double faults and managing only 50% first serves in the opening set—Fernandez showed determination, particularly in the second set to force a decider.

After the match, Fernandez became emotional during her on-court interview, thanking her family and mentioning that she had received some “bad news,” though she did not elaborate further. The Canadian player’s performance nonetheless demonstrated her continued competitiveness on the WTA Tour.

The Pan Pacific Open marks a significant achievement for Shnaider, who dedicated the win to her team and family, emphasizing the importance of the title to her and those supporting her career.