By Erin Klassen
Denis Shapovalov hit one of biggest wins in Canadian tennis this week putting the 18 year old on the world's sporting radar. Knocking Rafael Nadal out of the Roger's Cup on Thursday and winning last night's match against Adrian Mandarino, Shapovalov has now entered next level tennis.
Per the post match interview transcripts, as made available by ASAP Sports, both Shapovalov and Nadal cited the 18-year-old’s lack of nerves as the match grew tight in the third set, made possible by his youthful inexperience and the knowledge he had nothing to lose. (usatodayhss.com)
Youthful inexperience as an edge? Perhaps for a player who has yet to experience a major collapse, but nearly all great athletes suffer that result at some point. (usatodayhss.com)
Youthful energy maybe part of the magic however, Shapovalov fearless training and work ethic on the court is also paying dividends. Coming up with a 360-degree backhand winner when he needed it was one (of many) match highlights.
Today's he faces Germany's Alexander Zverev and if he can pull off another win, he will face Roger Federer in the Rogers Cup final on Sunday. Some are left wondering, will it really be Roger's Cup this year?