Denis Shapovalov was meant to have a smooth start of his campaign in Stockholm since he was opposed to his compatriot and world no. 130 Peter Polansky that was coming straight from the qualifications.
However, Polansky was on a different opinion to play a really good and solid tennis against the 19-year-old from the baseline. When Denis won the opener (6-3), it seemed that he had the chance to cruise in the second set even if Peter was playing well. Still, the world no.130 managed to break Denis in the 12th game (7-5) of the second set to bring the affair to the decider.
In the 3rd set, Shapovalov conquered a break in the 3rd game (2-1) before stretching his lead (3-1). However, Polansky broke back to then conquer a 4-3 lead. Denis maintained his cool and he got another break in the 11th game that proved to be decisive. Shapovalov won the match 6-3 5-7 7-5 in 2 hours and 33 minutes.
Next vs. Gulbis
Shapovalov will face Gulbis in the 2nd round. They have never played each other so far.
