Denis Shapovalov keeps on winning.

After reaching the semifinal in Madrid, the 19-year-old wins an extremely tough match against Tomas Berdych in the Rome opener.

The match

Denis had a terrible start to concede the first 5 games (0-5) and get on the scoreboard at the end of the opening set before losing 6-1. Then, the Canadian found the mental strength to hold his service at ease to concede only 2 points in the first 3 service games of the second set while breaking Berdych in the 4^th game (3-1). That was enough for the Canadian to win the set (6-3) and bring the affair to the decider.

There was no break in the 3^rd set, and a great start in the breaker (4-1) was the base for Denis to win the tiebreak and the match. The final score was 1-6 6-3 7-6 (5) with Berdych winning 3 points more than Shapovalov (89-86).

After winning this match, Denis will overtake Milos Raonic to become the Canadian no.1.

It was a tough first set. SHAPOVALOV

After the match, Denis commented

“It was a pretty tough first set, but I got a footing on the court and picked up my game. I feel like I live and die by my shots. I either go out swinging and winning or swinging and losing. I’ve been playing good in the big moments, so I’m happy to get these wins.”

Next vs. Haase

Denis will face the world no.44 Robin Haase in the 2^nd round. They have never played each other so far.