Denis Shapovalov is one of the most exciting and correct prospect around; the Canadian was caught in an extremely unpleasant accident on Sunday.
The youngster was playing an in-form Kyle Edmund in the decisive match of the first-round tie between Canada and Great Britain. Denis was two sets down, and he was broken in the 3rd game of the third set after he missed a backhand. The 17-year-old couldn’t contain his frustration to throw a ball to the stands in full rage, but unfortunately, the Canadian hit the umpire Arnaud Gabas that was subsequently sent to the hospital. Shapovalov was defaulted, and his team lost the tie against Great Britain.
Denis destroyed by what has happened to immediately apologize to the umpire.
A lesson for his career
Canada’s Davis Cup captain Martin Laurendeau commented
“There’s always a lesson to be learned from the good moments and the worst moments. If he wants to compete at this level, he has to keep it together.
Emotional control is the biggest factor in this game. He must learn the lesson and hope it serves him in the rest of his career.”
The same message was conveyed by GB captain Leon Smith
“A bit of a surprise what happened at the end there, and I feel for the young lad. He’s a great talent, and he’s learned a harsh lesson today.
I feel sorry for Denis. He’s learned a harsh lesson today. It’s a shame for the fans who were there. The most important thing is that the umpire’s okay, because that can be really dangerous, when a ball is travelling at such speed from such a short distance. I spoke to him when he was in the chair, and he looked like he would be okay, but I’m sure he’ll be getting some medical attention and having some checks done.”
Shapovalov is only 17, and should be forgiven, but issue is where he learned the recklessness from. Too many top stars have had near misses.
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) February 5, 2017
Shapovalov: “I would like to begin by apologising to the referee (umpire) and all the officials. It’s unacceptable behaviour from me
— Eleanor Crooks (@EleanorcrooksPA) February 5, 2017
Hopefully this incident ends trend of players smacking balls and throwing rackets carelessly. Shapovalov defaulted for DRILLING chair ump. https://t.co/ysOU4p8O3r
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) February 5, 2017
No one is nicer or carries themselves better for a 17 y/o than Shapovalov. Everyone can see that today was an accident. Can happen to anyone
— Vasek Pospisil (@VasekPospisil) February 5, 2017
| THAT WAS WEIRD AND PAINFUL |
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