Shapovalov passes his first test in New York

Canada’s Denis Shapovalov passed his first test in the opening round of the US Open on Monday in New York.

The 12th seed of this Grand Slam tournament defeated the American Sebastian Korda in four sets of 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 and 6-2, in a clash that lasted more than 2 h 45 min .

The representative of the maple leaf was good with his first serve, he who notably achieved 13 aces. He also won 83% of the rallies played when he placed his first ball in play.

When his opponent had the balls in hand, “Shapo” constantly assaulted him. He gave himself 14 break points, but the 205th player in the world managed to save 10.

“I’ve been practicing for four, five, six months, so it’s nice to come back and feel the pressure again, to smell butterflies. That’s what we live for, said Shapovalov at his post-match press conference. It’s amazing to be able to play. ”

The Ontarian, however, found it a bit odd not to perform in front of New York audiences.

“Obviously it’s kinda weird when you’re here and playing pretty much alone,” he said. But I feel like when I’m pumped like that, I’m playing my best tennis. I’m really trying to focus on this and I think I did a really good job today [lundi].»

In the second round, Shapovalov will face South Korean Soonwoo Kwon. The ATP’s 73rd racquet defeated American Thai-Son Kwiatkowski in four sets of 3-6, 7-6 (4), 6-1, 6-2. It will be a first duel between the two men.

The other Canadians in contention for this prestigious tournament, namely Félix Auger-Aliassime, Milos Raonic, Vasek Pospisil and Leylah Annie Fernandez, will begin their competition on Tuesday.

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