Leylah Fernandez escapes against Petkovic in Madrid

Leylah Fernandez had a furious start against Andrea Petkovic but had to come back from a break down in the final set to win 6-1 1-6 6-4.

It was a very interesting affair for the Canadian who has high hopes for this clay season. It's not been good last year but now with more belief and improved overall play, Fernandez is ready for some strong showings. It looked that way early on in the match as the Canadian stormed past her opponent in stellar fashion winning the opening set 6-1.

Petkovic was simply getting outplayed from the baseline as Leylah dominated with her forehand. The 2nd set completely flipped the switch as the German veteran found her stroke. It was an incredible comeback from Petkovic who used a lapse in play from Fernandez. Petkovic also served rather well which allowed her to keep Fernandez away from any reak points.

That change in momentum worked well early on in the 3rd set as well with the German jumping out to a 2-0 lead. Fernande barely survived her game at 0-2 which proved crucial in the end. That hold injected her confidence and she started attacking once more with great success. She pulled the break back and continued applying pressure.

In the end, Petkovic was not able to sustain the intensity needed and Fernandez finished it off with 6-4. Tougher than it needed to be but it will give her confidence moving forward.