What a difference a year can make!

When looking back to this time last year, Denis Shapovalov’s ATP ranking catapulted to break the top 100, rising 74 spots. When he displayed an outstanding  performance advancing to the semi finals, at the Coupe Rogers. Beating top ranked players Juan Martin del Potro and Rafael Nadal along the way.

This win was the beginning of impressive performances and personal experience for our Richmondhill native. Including, 4th round at the U.S. Open, player of John McEnroe, inaugural Laver Cup team and 4^th round qualifier for the first-ever NextGenATP Finals in Milan.

Novak Djokovic and Kevin Anderson

Novak Djokovic and Kevin Anderson

However, this 19 year old rising superstar, currently ranked 23 in the world, is no stranger to winning on the big stage. As a junior, Shapovalov  won the 2016 Wimbledon Singles title and in 2015 won the U.S. Open Juniors doubles title, with fellow Canadian teenager, partner Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Felix Auger-Alisassime, Denis Shapovalov

Felix Auger-Alisassime

This dynamic duo team had another opportunity to compete on Canadian soil today, at the Aviva Centre. First round action saw them up against the previous world #1 Novak Djokovic and current #6 in the world, Kevin Anderson. At a standingroom only, Grandstand court, the teenage pair came out strong and aggressive, breaking and then holding serve, giving them a quick 2-0 lead.  As the match continued the veteran opponents found their rhythm and game, winning 6-3 and 6-2 over our Canadian NextGen’s.

Felix Auger-Alisassime

At the post match interview, the pair spoke of how they focused on having fun and just playing their best. Adding that they hoped to have more opportunities to be partners again in the future.

Earlier this week during a post practice interview, I had the chance to ask this Canadian tennis sensation about his style of play and how he plays so freely, so loose and hits so fearlessly, no matter the score?  Asking if he has always played with this and instinctual and confident style?

Novak Djokovic

His answer was “yes”! He was always encouraged to go with and trust his attacking, athletic, dictating style of tennis. Explaining that it was through these experiences of being challenged and losing, in his junior years of training and competition, that he grew in confidence and belief.  His opponents beating him in his high-risk style, made him better over time.   This attitude and belief still holds true today.  Stating that he is young and has many years to improve his game, on the worlds biggest stages playing against the worlds best.

What a thrill it is to witness our own Canadian Denis Shapovalov soar up close and personal.

Laurel Neal

Photo credit: Neena Channan