Denis Shapovalov had a fantastic weekend in Slovakia where he faced the local Davis Cup team alongside his dear friend Felix Auger-Aliassime.
The world no.25 had to play on his least favorite surface, the clay, but he demonstrated that he could compete on the dirt with any problem. In fact, the upcoming Canadian didn’t concede a single set in his matches against Filip Horansky (6-4 7-5) and Martin Klizan (7-6 6-4). These 2 results were essential for his team to qualify for the finals after Felix won the decisive rubber against Robert Gombos 6-3 6-4.
I proved to everyone I can play on clay. SHAPOVALOV
Denis commented
“I think it’s pretty safe to say that the debate on whether I can play on clay is official over.I think with today’s match I proved to everyone that I can play well on clay. The level of tennis today was very high. It was physically tough to play after a doubles match, and I think we were both feeling it on the court.
I had a little bit of trouble getting into the match after the break but then the adrenaline kicked in and I felt really fresh.
I think I also stayed very sharp mentally. I’m really happy I could win that match for Tennis Canada. We really needed it.”
Denis had another great run on clay last year when he reached the semifinals in Madrid.
The Canadian will head to Montpelier where he will compete in the ATP250 where he is seeded no.3.
CLAY? NO PROBLEM |
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