Denis Shapovalov just pulled off one of the most incredible weeks of his career, taking down three Top 10 players in just four days to claim his biggest-ever title at the Dallas Open. The Canadian star showcased his talent, grit, and determination, proving that he’s back and ready to make a serious impact on the ATP Tour.
A Week to Remember
At just 25 years old, Shapovalov has already had an impressive career. He’s been a Wimbledon semifinalist, a quarterfinalist at both the US Open and Australian Open, and even cracked the ATP Top 10, reaching No. 10 in 2020. But what he accomplished in Dallas might just be his most remarkable feat yet.
Not only did he win the tournament, but he did it in stunning fashion—beating three Top 10 opponents back-to-back. He started with a huge win over World No. 4 Taylor Fritz in the second round, followed by a dominant semifinal victory against World No. 9 Tommy Paul. He capped it all off with a straight-sets triumph over World No. 5 Casper Ruud in the final.
Breaking the Top 10 Curse
Heading into the Dallas Open, Shapovalov hadn’t beaten a Top 10 player in over two years—833 days to be exact. His last such victory? A second-round win over Taylor Fritz in Vienna back in 2022. But he changed that narrative in a big way, stringing together not just three Top 10 wins but doing so in commanding fashion, winning his last six sets in a row against these elite players.
Shapovalov’s Road to the Dallas Title:
- 1st Round: Defeated Miomir Kecmanovic (No. 55) – 6-3, 6-7(5), 6-3
- 2nd Round: Defeated Taylor Fritz (No. 4) – 2-6, 6-3, 7-6(2)
- Quarterfinals: Defeated Tomas Machac (No. 25) – 7-6(5), 6-0
- Semifinals: Defeated Tommy Paul (No. 9) – 7-5, 6-3
- Final: Defeated Casper Ruud (No. 5) – 7-6(5), 6-3
The Big Climb Back
This title marks the third ATP crown of Shapovalov’s career and his first at the ATP 500 level. His previous two victories came at ATP 250 events in Stockholm (2019) and Belgrade (2024), both on indoor hard courts. Now, with this latest triumph, he’s projected to jump from No. 54 to No. 32 in the ATP rankings, putting him in prime position for seeding at upcoming Masters 1000 tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami.
The rise is even more special considering his struggles over the past year. A knee injury forced him to shut down his 2023 season after Wimbledon, causing his ranking to plummet to No. 140. At one point, he wasn’t even sure if he’d return to the court. But after months of hard work and rehabilitation, he’s back—and playing some of the best tennis of his career.
A Statement Victory
In the final against Ruud, Shapovalov put on a masterclass. With tennis legend John Isner and former NBA star Dirk Nowitzki watching from the stands, he fired 13 aces and dictated play with his powerful left-handed strokes. He controlled the court, using his forehand to open up angles and keep Ruud on the move. The victory was his first over Ruud in three meetings and a clear sign that he’s ready to compete at the highest level again.
“It’s been very, very difficult,” Shapovalov admitted. “There were times when I didn’t know if I’d ever step back onto the court. But the work, the sacrifices, and the belief have all paid off. I’m just happy to be back and playing at this level.”
With momentum on his side and a renewed sense of confidence, Denis Shapovalov is once again a force to be reckoned with on the ATP Tour. If this week in Dallas is any indication, the best may be yet to come!
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