Denis Shapovalov captured the Los Cabos title with a commanding 6-4, 6-2 victory over Aleksandar Kovacevic, marking a significant moment in his career. It’s his first ATP title in nearly five years, and one that reaffirms his place among the sport’s most dynamic players. Shapovalov looked composed and clinical throughout the match, showcasing an aggressive style and unwavering control from the baseline.
Rare clash of one-handers on the big stage
This final held historic weight as it was the first time since 2019 that two players with a one-handed backhand met in an ATP final. Both Shapovalov and Kovacevic brought flair and fluidity to the court, demonstrating how the classic shot still has its place in the modern game. Their backhands weren’t just elegant—they were weapons, slicing through rallies and dictating tempo.
Shapovalov’s journey back to form
After dealing with injuries and inconsistent form over the past seasons, Shapovalov’s resurgence in Mexico could signal a turning point. His powerful serve, confident shot-making, and renewed energy were all evident in Los Cabos. The win not only adds silverware to his resume but also boosts his momentum heading into the hard court swing.
Kovacevic’s breakthrough despite defeat
Although Kovacevic fell short in the final, the American’s run in Los Cabos was an important milestone. Reaching his first ATP final and competing against a former top-10 player gives a clear indication of his potential. His graceful one-handed backhand and composed demeanor earned admiration, and he’ll surely be one to watch in the months ahead.
Denis Shapovalov had won three ATP singles titles in his career before Los Cabos.
| Year | Tournament | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Stockholm Open | Filip Krajinović | 6–4, 6–4 |
| 2024 | Belgrade Open | Hamad Medjedovic | 6–4, 6–4 |
| 2025 | Dallas Open | Casper Ruud | 7–6(5), 6–3 |
Shapovalov in Los Cabos, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently ranked no.33, Shapovalov achieved a 18-14 match record in 2025. Denis is currently playing in Los Cabos where he beat the world no.405 Govind Nanda 6-1 6-2
, the world no.110 Tristan Schoolkate 6-3 6-2 and the world no.97 Adam Walton 6-2 6-2.Denis Shapovalov will compete against the world no.76 Aleksandar Kovacevic in the final on Saturday at 8:00 pm on ESTADIO MEXTENIS. They have never competed against each other till now in top tournaments.
Denis has won 1 title in 2025 in Dallas.
Kovacevic in Los Cabos, ranking, and results in 2025
Now the world no.76, the American achieved a 28-19 match record in 2025. Kovacevic is playing at the moment in Los Cabos where he overcame the world no.172 Hady Habib 6-1 3-6 6-3, the world no.784 Luis Carlos Alvarez 7-5 6-4, the world no.148 Juan Pablo Ficovich 6-3 6-1 and the world no.10 Andrey Rublev 3-6 6-4 6-4.
Aleksandar Kovacevic will fight against the world no.33 Denis Shapovalov in the final on Saturday at 8:00 pm on ESTADIO MEXTENIS. They have never played each other so far on the main tour.
The American conquered 3 titles in 2025 in the Oeiras 2 Challenger, the Cap Cana Challenger and Los Cabos. Aleksandar was the runner-up in Montpellier (Open Occitanie).
Denis Shapovalov and Aleksandar Kovacevic have never fought against each other.