Great Britain's Andy Murray fought back for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Italy's Matteo Berrettini on Wednesday (March 20) in the first round of the Miami Open.

Murray swatted nine aces to Berrettini's eight, saved 4 of 5 break points and never trailed following the first set. He is a two-time champion at the event, having won in 2009 and 2013.

"It was obviously a great win for me," Murray said.

Berrettini, who was playing on a protected ranking, needed medical attention in the second set after feeling dizzy. A doctor took his blood pressure, and play eventually resumed.

Also playing on a protected ranking, Canada’s Denis Shapovalov toppled Italy's Luciano Darderi 6-3 6-7(3) 6-4 to advance to the second round.

And American wild card Martin Damm upset Zhizhen Zhang of China in two sets that went to tiebreak, 7-6(2) 7-6(3).

<h2>Women's draw</h2>

Only 11 players have completed the "Sunshine Double", winning Indian Wells and the Miami Open back-to-back, but world number one Iga Swiatek comes to Florida looking to join an even more exclusive club of those that have managed a double-double.

Only two men, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, have won the double more than once while Steffi Graf (1994 and 1996) remains the only woman.

The top-seeded Pole, who snatched her first double in 2022, could find herself in elite company if she can hoist the Miami trophy again and few are betting against her.

Swiatek completed the first leg of the double in imperious style on Sunday (March 17), steam-rolling to the Indian Wells title without dropping a set, capping off her tournament with a 6-4 6-0 drubbing of Maria Sakkari.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-gujarat-titans-announce-sandeep-warrier-as-mohammed-shamis-replacement-702398">IPL 2024: Gujarat Titans announce Sandeep Warrier as Mohammed Shami's replacement</a>

But having just arrived in Miami and not yet set foot on a court, Swiatek is taking a cautious approach.

“It’s not easy to come from Indian Wells and play here in such humidity. But I have all new positive thoughts. And honestly, I'm really happy with what I really achieved at the beginning of the season. So, I'm really kind of taking it easy, step by step, and I'll see how it's going to look like,” she said in an interview on Wednesday (March 20).

Meanwhile, world number three and Florida native, Coco Gauff will be trying to capitalize at her home tournament.

Gauff, who lost to Sakkari in the Indian Wells semi-finals, can count on plenty of crowd support as she returns to Miami for the first time since her triumph at last year's U.S. Open.

Great Britain's Andy Murray fought back for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Italy's Matteo Berrettini on Wednesday (March 20) in the first round of the Miami Open. Murray swatted nine aces to Berrettini's eight, saved 4 of 5 break points and never trailed following the first set.

Great Britain's Andy Murray fought back for a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Italy's Matteo Berrettini on Wednesday (March 20) in the first round of the Miami Open. Murray swatted nine aces to Berrettini's eight, saved 4 of 5 break points and never trailed following the first set. He is a two-time champion at the event, having won in 2009 and 2013. "It was obviously a great win for me," Murray said. Berrettini, who was playing on a protected ranking, needed medical attention in the second set after feeling dizzy. A doctor took his blood pressure, and play eventually resumed. Also playing on a protected ranking, Canada’s Denis Shapovalov toppled Italy's Luciano Darderi 6-3 6-7(3) 6-4 to advance to the second round. And American wild card Martin Damm upset Zhizhen Zhang of China in two sets that went to tiebreak, 7-6(2) 7-6(3). Women's draw Only 11 players have completed the "Sunshine Double", winning Indian Wells and the Miami Open back-to-back, but world number one Iga Swiatek comes to Florida looking to join an even more exclusive club of those that have managed a double-double. Only two men, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic, have won the double more than once while Steffi Graf (1994 and 1996) remains the only woman. The top-seeded Pole, who snatched her first double in 2022, could find herself in elite company if she can hoist the Miami trophy again and few are betting against her. Swiatek completed the first leg of the double in imperious style on Sunday (March 17), steam-rolling to the Indian Wells title without dropping a set, capping off her tournament with a 6-4 6-0 drubbing of Maria Sakkari. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Gujarat Titans announce Sandeep Warrier as Mohammed Shami's replacement But having just arrived in Miami and not yet set foot on a court, Swiatek is taking a cautious approach. “It’s not easy to come from Indian Wells and play here in such humidity. But I have all new positive thoughts. And honestly, I'm really happy with what I really achieved at the beginning of the season. So, I'm really kind of taking it easy, step by step, and I'll see how it's going to look like,” she said in an interview on Wednesday (March 20). Meanwhile, world number three and Florida native, Coco Gauff will be trying to capitalize at her home tournament. Gauff, who lost to Sakkari in the Indian Wells semi-finals, can count on plenty of crowd support as she returns to Miami for the first time since her triumph at last year's U.S. Open.

Tennis: Andy Murray beats Matteo Berrettini to advance in Miami Open, Denis Shapovalov in next round

Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov fulfilled a childhood dream on Sunday as they sealed tennis history for Canada with a first Davis Cup title by beating Australia 2-0 in Malaga.

Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov fulfilled a childhood dream on Sunday as they sealed tennis history for Canada with a first Davis Cup title by beating Australia 2-0 in Malaga. World number six Auger-Aliassime eased past Alex De Minaur 6-3, 6-4 to give Canada the trophy in Sunday's final at the expense of 28-time winners Australia. Earlier Shapovalov had given Canada, beaten finalists in 2019 to Spain, the first point with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Thanasi Kokkinakis. "The emotions are tough to describe," said 22-year-old Auger-Aliassime. "Denis and I grew up together dreaming of these types of stage, dreaming of winning the Davis Cup. It's a great moment for myself and for the country." De Minaur, ranked 24, paid for failing to convert any of his eight break points, hitting just five winners as Australia played their first Davis Cup final since 2003. Auger-Aliassime relied on his consistent serve with six aces and solid baseline play. Shapovalov meanwhile was fuelled by his desire for a first singles win this week. "Two tough losses this week and I'm very happy with the way I played today to get the win," said the 23-year-old. "It helped me being in the final before. Last time it was all kind of new, we were relieved just to be there but today we're very much going for the trophy." 'Tremendous chemistry' The 18th-ranked Canadian had been out of sorts in a semi-final defeat to Italy on Saturday but hit back against Kokkinakis with 23 winners to the Australian's five. Shapovalov raced to a 4-0 lead after quarter of an hour in Malaga, sealing the first set with his ninth winner after half an hour. The Canadian staved off three break points in the fourth game of the second set. Kokkinakis dug in to convert his first break point of four when Shapovalov was serving for the match and held serve but the Canadian was not to be denied sealing victory on his second match point. "It was tough to lose in 2019, it was an empty feeling and we wanted it badly this time, said Shapovalov. Canada had come a long way since they were eliminated in qualifying by the Netherlands back in March before being handed a wild card into the finals after the exclusion of Russia and Belarus following the invasion of Ukraine. Canada then finished second in Group B behind Spain in September, before eliminating Germany in the quarter-finals (2-1) and Italy in the semi-finals (2-1) earlier this week On Sunday, Canada's 2-0 unassailable lead meant that the final doubles rubber did not need to be played. "We've been dreaming about this for several years," said 32-year-old doubles specialist Vasek Pospisil. "To be here as world champions I'm speechless. These guys are not kids any more. They've been crushing it. You can't win this event without tremendous team chemistry."

Canada's Auger-Aliassime, Shapovalov achieve childhood dream with first Davis Cup title

World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev on Thursday produced a great performance in the Western and Southern Open to defeat Denis Shapovalov of Canada in a thrilling hard-fought clash. The 26-year-old overwhelmed Canadian Shapovalov 7-5, 7-5 in one hour and 45 minutes clash to book a spot in the quarter-finals.

Medvedev shot his flat backhand with consistency, while he stood deep behind the baseline on return to dismiss Canadian`s lefty serve and piercing forehand. In a hard-fought first clash, Shapovalov constantly tried to pull Medvedev around the court, dancing around the ball to strike his forehand into the corners.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/looking-forward-to-it-emma-raducanu-determined-to-defend-her-miracle-us-open-title-508368" hreflang="en">'Looking forward to it' - Emma Raducanu determined to defend her US Open title</a>

However, the top seed has become famous for being able to dig deep and perform well under pressure. Medvedev`s watertight groundstrokes forced the Canadian to make one error to multiple on serve at 5-5. Medvedev then swept through his final service game to advance. World No. 1 will next play American Taylor Fritz after the Indian Wells champion edged Andrey Rublev in three sets.

"The match was pretty tight. I felt that it was a great level. I felt that he was missing a bit more than me but making more points, but that is how Shapo plays," Medvedev said in his on-court interview. "My goal was to stay there at every point possible and try and put pressure on him when I had the chance. But there were many points where I was just running across the baseline, trying to get back his shots. Generally happy with the level," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-need-to-move-forward-rafael-nadal-trains-his-aim-at-us-open-following-loss-against-borna-coric-508061" hreflang="en">'I need to move forward'- Rafael Nadal trains his aim at US Open following loss against Borna Coric</a>

On the other hand, Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to the quarter-finals with a dominant 6-3, 6-3 win against Diego Schwartzman. Carlos Alcaraz continues his winning run at the Western and Southern Open, where his 7-6(4), 6-1 triumph against Marin Cilic on Thursday made him the event`s youngest quarter-finalist since Andy Murray, 16 years ago.

World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev on Thursday produced a great performance in the Western and Southern Open to defeat Denis Shapovalov of Canada in a thrilling hard-fought clash.

World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev on Thursday produced a great performance in the Western and Southern Open to defeat Denis Shapovalov of Canada in a thrilling hard-fought clash. The 26-year-old overwhelmed Canadian Shapovalov 7-5, 7-5 in one hour and 45 minutes clash to book a spot in the quarter-finals. Medvedev shot his flat backhand with consistency, while he stood deep behind the baseline on return to dismiss Canadian`s lefty serve and piercing forehand. In a hard-fought first clash, Shapovalov constantly tried to pull Medvedev around the court, dancing around the ball to strike his forehand into the corners. ALSO READ: 'Looking forward to it' - Emma Raducanu determined to defend her US Open title However, the top seed has become famous for being able to dig deep and perform well under pressure. Medvedev`s watertight groundstrokes forced the Canadian to make one error to multiple on serve at 5-5. Medvedev then swept through his final service game to advance. World No. 1 will next play American Taylor Fritz after the Indian Wells champion edged Andrey Rublev in three sets. "The match was pretty tight. I felt that it was a great level. I felt that he was missing a bit more than me but making more points, but that is how Shapo plays," Medvedev said in his on-court interview. "My goal was to stay there at every point possible and try and put pressure on him when I had the chance. But there were many points where I was just running across the baseline, trying to get back his shots. Generally happy with the level," he added. ALSO READ: 'I need to move forward'- Rafael Nadal trains his aim at US Open following loss against Borna Coric On the other hand, Stefanos Tsitsipas advanced to the quarter-finals with a dominant 6-3, 6-3 win against Diego Schwartzman. Carlos Alcaraz continues his winning run at the Western and Southern Open, where his 7-6(4), 6-1 triumph against Marin Cilic on Thursday made him the event`s youngest quarter-finalist since Andy Murray, 16 years ago.

World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev outclasses Denis Shapovalov to enter the quarter finals of Cincinnati Masters

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal had a solid start, but the 35-year-old struggled physically towards the end of the contest, raising doubts over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which he has won a record 13 times.

The Spaniard, who has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades, dominated the opening set with his brilliant return of serves. Canadian Shapovalov responded in style by racing to a 4-1 lead in the second set with his energetic and attacking play, but Nadal got back into the contest by winning the next three games.

Nadal saved a set point at 4-5 but a series of unforced errors and lack of aggression from him saw the match go into the deciding third set. World number four Nadal broke through right away at the start of the decider but later limped with an apparent foot injury, likely related to his chronic left-foot problem. 
Shapovalov went won 17 of the last 20 points, completing his comeback as he handed Nadal his earliest Rome exit since 2008.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiatek-wins-25th-straight-match-to-reach-rome-quarter-finals-478451">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek wins 25th straight match to reach Rome quarter-finals</a>

"I am not injured. I am a player living with an injury. That`s it," Nadal told reporters. "I started the match playing much better. My practice was much better, the warm-up, than the other day. "Then when these kind of stuff happens, the rest of the things, the rest of the positive things disappears."

Shapovalov said he hoped Nadal would recover in time for the French Open, which starts on 22nd May. 
"Definitely tough to see him in pain there at the end. I never want to see that, especially with a great legend like Rafa," he added. "He`s been winning so much, I think it`s almost been difficult for him to stop playing and kind of take it easy."

Earlier, Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019.

The 361st ranked Wawrinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory.

It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. 
"From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next."

Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter-finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov.

Local hope Jannik Sinner reached his first quarter-final in Rome with a 6-2 7-6(6) victory over Filip Krajinovic, while fifth seed Casper Ruud won 6-3 6-4 against Jenson Brooksby.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday.

Rafa Nadal was knocked out of the Italian Open after the 21-times major winner was beaten 1-6 7-5 6-2 by Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the last-16 of the Italian Open on Thursday. Nadal had a solid start, but the 35-year-old struggled physically towards the end of the contest, raising doubts over his fitness ahead of the French Open, which he has won a record 13 times. The Spaniard, who has endured a string of injuries during a career spanning more than two decades, dominated the opening set with his brilliant return of serves. Canadian Shapovalov responded in style by racing to a 4-1 lead in the second set with his energetic and attacking play, but Nadal got back into the contest by winning the next three games. Nadal saved a set point at 4-5 but a series of unforced errors and lack of aggression from him saw the match go into the deciding third set. World number four Nadal broke through right away at the start of the decider but later limped with an apparent foot injury, likely related to his chronic left-foot problem. Shapovalov went won 17 of the last 20 points, completing his comeback as he handed Nadal his earliest Rome exit since 2008. ALSO READ | World No. 1 Iga Swiatek wins 25th straight match to reach Rome quarter-finals "I am not injured. I am a player living with an injury. That`s it," Nadal told reporters. "I started the match playing much better. My practice was much better, the warm-up, than the other day. "Then when these kind of stuff happens, the rest of the things, the rest of the positive things disappears." Shapovalov said he hoped Nadal would recover in time for the French Open, which starts on 22nd May. "Definitely tough to see him in pain there at the end. I never want to see that, especially with a great legend like Rafa," he added. "He`s been winning so much, I think it`s almost been difficult for him to stop playing and kind of take it easy." Earlier, Novak Djokovic ended Stan Wawrinka`s hopes of stringing together a hat-trick of match wins for the first time in 18 months with a 6-2 6-2 thumping. The 37-year-old Swiss, who had not played for 12 months after undergoing two surgeries for a foot injury, battled past Reilly Opelka and Laslo Djere to set up a 26th meeting with top seed Djokovic in the Italian capital, and first since 2019. The 361st ranked Wawrinka, who last won three successive matches at the 2020 Paris Masters, could not cope with Djokovic`s baseline intensity in the first set and was broken twice. Wawrinka showed incredible defence to break Djokovic in the sixth game of the second set but a double break from the world number one carried him to victory. It was Djokovic`s 20th win over Wawrinka, and 998th career victory, as he bids to become the fifth player to reach the 1000-win mark. "It is great to see Stan back," the Serbian said. "He won two matches here, he is still physically not there, but he is still Stan and can hurt you. "From the beginning I really moved him around the court and held my serve well. I know what is expected from me next." Djokovic will face Canadian Felix Auger Aliassime in the quarter-finals after the 21-year-old beat American Marcos Giron 6-3 6-2. Alexander Zverev chalked up a century of match wins at Masters 1000 events with a 6-3 7-6(5) win over Australian Alex de Minaur, while world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas battled back from a set down to beat 4-6 6-0 6-3 Russian Karen Khachanov. Local hope Jannik Sinner reached his first quarter-final in Rome with a 6-2 7-6(6) victory over Filip Krajinovic, while fifth seed Casper Ruud won 6-3 6-4 against Jenson Brooksby.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal knocked out of Italian Open by Denis Shapovalov in last-16

Novak Djokovic`s bid to retain his World No. 1 status enjoyed a solid start on Tuesday at the Italian Open 2022 in Rome. The five-time champion brushed past Aslan Karatsev, 6-3, 6-2 in the second round at the ATP Masters 1000 event. The top seed must reach the semi-finals to prevent Daniil Medvedev from taking his spot at the top of the ATP Rankings on Monday, and the Serbian`s all-round performance against Karatsev represented an impressive start to that mission.

Djokovic`s return game was at its relentless best as he broke the World No. 35`s serve four times on his way to a comfortable win on centre court. Later, Felix Auger-Aliassime had his back against it literally and figuratively, but the Canadian star found a way to win. The eighth seed rallied past in-form Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 after three hours and two minutes to reach the third round in Rome. Another Canadian, 13th seed Denis Shapovalov, defeated Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-4, 7-6(5).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-says-his-body-is-like-an-old-machine-takes-time-to-fire-up-477876">Rafael Nadal says his body is like an 'old machine' takes time to fire up</a>

The lefty will challenge third seed Rafael Nadal or big-serving American John Isner for a place in the quarter-finals. Shapovalov only faced one break point against 2021 Indian Wells finalist Basilashvili and he saved it. The 23-year-old won 85 per cent of his first-serve points in his one-hour, 40-minute victory.

Novak Djokovic`s bid to retain his World No. 1 status enjoyed a solid start on Tuesday at the Italian Open 2022 in Rome. The five-time champion brushed past Aslan Karatsev, 6-3, 6-2 in the second round at the ATP Masters 1000 event.

Novak Djokovic`s bid to retain his World No. 1 status enjoyed a solid start on Tuesday at the Italian Open 2022 in Rome. The five-time champion brushed past Aslan Karatsev, 6-3, 6-2 in the second round at the ATP Masters 1000 event. The top seed must reach the semi-finals to prevent Daniil Medvedev from taking his spot at the top of the ATP Rankings on Monday, and the Serbian`s all-round performance against Karatsev represented an impressive start to that mission. Djokovic`s return game was at its relentless best as he broke the World No. 35`s serve four times on his way to a comfortable win on centre court. Later, Felix Auger-Aliassime had his back against it literally and figuratively, but the Canadian star found a way to win. The eighth seed rallied past in-form Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 4-6, 7-6(2), 6-2 after three hours and two minutes to reach the third round in Rome. Another Canadian, 13th seed Denis Shapovalov, defeated Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-4, 7-6(5). ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal says his body is like an 'old machine' takes time to fire up The lefty will challenge third seed Rafael Nadal or big-serving American John Isner for a place in the quarter-finals. Shapovalov only faced one break point against 2021 Indian Wells finalist Basilashvili and he saved it. The 23-year-old won 85 per cent of his first-serve points in his one-hour, 40-minute victory.

Italian Open: Novak Djokovic thumps Aslan Karatsev in opener; Felix, Shapovalov also advance ahead

Former World number one Andy Murray on Tuesday defeated Denis Shapovalov to reach the third round at the Madrid Open 2022. With a 6-1, 3-6, 6-2 victory over the Canadian in Madrid, Murray now for the first time has won consecutive matches since January in Sydney, where the 46-time tour-level titlist reached the final.After good wins at the Caja Magica against former Top 10 players in Dominic Thiem and Shapovalov, it will not get any easier for Murray. Next up is a blockbuster showdown with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic -- their first meeting since the Doha final in 2017 -- for a place in the quarter-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;Madrid Open: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-open-andry-murray-triumphs-over-dominic-thiem-to-attain-first-clay-court-challenge-in-two-years-475991">Andy Murray triumphs over Dominic Thiem to attain first clay-court challenge in two years</a>

Earlier, the world`s number one Novak Djokovic thrashed Gael Monfils. In what has proved a comfortable matchup for the Serb over the years, he snuffed out any chance of that with a 6-3, 6-2 victory to improve to 18-0 against the Frenchman. Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz spent much of his opening match behind in the set score but still claimed a relatively routine victory over Nikoloz Basilashvili, 6-3, 7-5.

The 18-year-old, who turns 19 on Thursday, will next face the winner of ninth seed Cameron Norrie`s Wednesday matchup against John Isner.

Former World number one Andy Murray on Tuesday defeated Denis Shapovalov to reach the third round at the Madrid Open 2022. With a 6-1, 3-6, 6-2 victory over the Canadian in Madrid, Murray now for the first time has won consecutive matches since January in Sydney, where the 46-time tour-level titlist reached the final.

Former World number one Andy Murray on Tuesday defeated Denis Shapovalov to reach the third round at the Madrid Open 2022. With a 6-1, 3-6, 6-2 victory over the Canadian in Madrid, Murray now for the first time has won consecutive matches since January in Sydney, where the 46-time tour-level titlist reached the final.After good wins at the Caja Magica against former Top 10 players in Dominic Thiem and Shapovalov, it will not get any easier for Murray. Next up is a blockbuster showdown with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic -- their first meeting since the Doha final in 2017 -- for a place in the quarter-finals. ALSO READ | Madrid Open: Andy Murray triumphs over Dominic Thiem to attain first clay-court challenge in two years Earlier, the world`s number one Novak Djokovic thrashed Gael Monfils. In what has proved a comfortable matchup for the Serb over the years, he snuffed out any chance of that with a 6-3, 6-2 victory to improve to 18-0 against the Frenchman. Meanwhile, Carlos Alcaraz spent much of his opening match behind in the set score but still claimed a relatively routine victory over Nikoloz Basilashvili, 6-3, 7-5. The 18-year-old, who turns 19 on Thursday, will next face the winner of ninth seed Cameron Norrie`s Wednesday matchup against John Isner.

Madrid Open: Andy Murray goes past Denis Shapovalov to set blockbuster clash vs Novak Djokovic

India's Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza were knocked out of the Miami Open from their respective doubles events after contrasting quarterfinal defeats here.

Frequent partners since 2019, the Indo-Canadian pair of Bopanna and Denis&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;went down 2-6 1-6 to sixth seeds Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski on Tuesday.

The unseeded pair of Bopanna and Shapovalov had stunned the top seeded Croatian duo of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets in the previous round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-naomi-osaka-outclasses-danielle-collins-to-set-up-maiden-semifinal-date-against-belinda-bencic-466949">Miami Open: Naomi Osaka outclasses Danielle Collins to set up maiden semifinal date against Belinda Bencic</a>

Mirza and her Belgian partner Kirsten Flipkens fought hard but eventually lost 3-6 6-7 (3) to China's Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhaoxuan Yang in one hour 23 minutes.

Indian challenge, thus, ended at the ATP/WTA tournaments.

India's Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza were knocked out of the Miami Open from their respective doubles events after contrasting quarterfinal defeats here. Frequent partners since 2019, the Indo-Canadian pair of Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov went down 2-6 1-6 to sixth seeds Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski on Tuesday.

India's Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza were knocked out of the Miami Open from their respective doubles events after contrasting quarterfinal defeats here. Frequent partners since 2019, the Indo-Canadian pair of Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov went down 2-6 1-6 to sixth seeds Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski on Tuesday. The unseeded pair of Bopanna and Shapovalov had stunned the top seeded Croatian duo of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets in the previous round. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Naomi Osaka outclasses Danielle Collins to set up maiden semifinal date against Belinda Bencic Mirza and her Belgian partner Kirsten Flipkens fought hard but eventually lost 3-6 6-7 (3) to China's Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhaoxuan Yang in one hour 23 minutes. Indian challenge, thus, ended at the ATP/WTA tournaments.

Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov, Sania Mirza-Kirsten Flipkens crashes out in quarterfinals

India's Rohan Bopanna and his Canadian partner Denis Shapovalov stunned top seeded Croatian pair of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets to enter men's doubles quarterfinals at the Miami Open tennis tournament here.

The unseeded Indo-Canadian pair surprised Mektic and Pavic 6-3 7-6(3) in a second round doubles match on Sunday.

Bopanna and Shapovalov will now face the sixth seeded pair of Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski for a place in the semifinals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-jannik-sinner-saves-five-match-points-to-beat-carreno-busta-coco-gauff-cameron-norrie-advance-466406">Miami Open: Jannik Sinner saves five match points to beat Carreno Busta; Coco Gauff, Cameron Norrie advance</a>

Koolhof and Skupski defeated Spanish-Italian combination of Pedro Martinez and Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 7-6(8) in the second round.

Bopanna and Shapovalov earlier registered a fighting 6-7(5) 6-2 10-3 win over Marceloa Avrevalo of El Salvador and Jean-Juien Rojer of Netherlands in the opening round of the ATP Masters 1000 event.

India's Rohan Bopanna and his Canadian partner Denis Shapovalov stunned top seeded Croatian pair of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets to enter men's doubles quarterfinals at the Miami Open tennis tournament here.

India's Rohan Bopanna and his Canadian partner Denis Shapovalov stunned top seeded Croatian pair of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets to enter men's doubles quarterfinals at the Miami Open tennis tournament here. The unseeded Indo-Canadian pair surprised Mektic and Pavic 6-3 7-6(3) in a second round doubles match on Sunday. Bopanna and Shapovalov will now face the sixth seeded pair of Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski for a place in the semifinals. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Jannik Sinner saves five match points to beat Carreno Busta; Coco Gauff, Cameron Norrie advance Koolhof and Skupski defeated Spanish-Italian combination of Pedro Martinez and Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 7-6(8) in the second round. Bopanna and Shapovalov earlier registered a fighting 6-7(5) 6-2 10-3 win over Marceloa Avrevalo of El Salvador and Jean-Juien Rojer of Netherlands in the opening round of the ATP Masters 1000 event.

Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters

Hubert Hurkacz unleashed 17 aces to topple France's Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(5) 6-2 and keep his title defence going at the Miami Open on Saturday as world number two Daniil Medvedev sent twice winner Andy Murray packing and Naomi Osaka advanced on a walkover.

Rinderknech was unable to convert his sole break point in the first set and lost the momentum altogether after the tiebreak, as the 10th-ranked Pole won the first four games of the second set of their second-round clash.

Reigning U.S. Open champion Medvedev never faced a break and proved too nimble for three-times Grand Slam winner Murray, dropping just two of his first-serve points in the second set as he won 6-4 6-2.

"Playing against Andy is never easy," said Russian Medvedev, who is on a quest to regain his number-one ranking. "Managed to serve well, and I think that was one of the keys today."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-set-to-become-polands-first-world-no-1-in-tennis-history-after-win-against-golubic-in-miami-open-465724">Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open</a>

Japan's Osaka advanced to the fourth round on a walkover after Czech Karolina Muchova withdrew following an injury she sustained during warm-ups.

The four-times Grand Slam champion will next face Alison Riske, who defeated Ann Li 6-2 3-6 6-3 in an all-American clash.

Muchova's was the latest injury to mar the women's field in Miami after Garbine Muguruza and Simona Halep pulled out on Thursday.

TSITSIPAS PULLS AWAY LATE, ALCARAZ GETS FIRST MIAMI WIN

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas held off strong resistance from American qualifier J.J. Wolf and won 6-4 6-7(5) 6-1.

The Greek, who hit 37 winners, will next face Alex de Minaur who defeated fellow Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2 6-3.

"He's a fighter," Tsitsipas said of de Minaur. "I really hope to bring out the same kind of level that I brought in the third set and maintain that throughout the match."

Spain's 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz secured his maiden win at the Miami event with a comfortable 6-3 6-2 victory against Marton Fucsovics of Hungary.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-former-world-no-1-simona-halep-pulls-out-with-leg-injury-set-to-miss-three-weeks-465454">Miami Open: Former World No. 1 Simona Halep pulls out with leg injury, set to miss three weeks</a>

Fresh from collecting the biggest title of his career at Indian Wells, American Taylor Fritz survived a surprise test from Kazakhstani qualifier Mikhail Kukushkin to win 6-3 5-7 6-3.

Kukushkin put up a strong defence, with eight of 11 break points saved, but struggled against his opponent`s powerful serve, with the 13th-ranked Fritz launching 10 aces.

Fritz drew a picture of the sun and the caption "x 2?" on the on-court camera after the match - a hint that he perhaps was chasing tennis's elusive "sunshine double" of Indian Wells and Miami - but said afterwards that the gesture was intended as a joke.

"I'm not coming here expecting to win the tournament or anything. I'm going into it with the same mentality as Indian Wells," he said in a televised interview. "Take it one match at a time."

Fritz's Indian Wells quarter-final opponent, Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, dispatched seventh-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4 6-2 and Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut moved past Pole Kamil Majchrzak 6-3 6-3.

SHAPOVALOV, KHACHANOV KNOCKED OUT

Canadian Denis Shapovalov lost 6-3 6-4 to Lloyd Harris of South Africa, American Jenson Brooksby defeated Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-3 6-1 and Marin Cilic beat Alexei Popyrin 6-0 6-3.

Karen Khachanov lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) to Tommy Paul, Daniel Evans suffered a 3-6 6-4 6-3 defeat by qualifier Yoshihito Nishioka and Cristian Garin was knocked out 7-6(2) 6-2 by Pedro Martinez.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-nick-kyrgios-storms-into-second-round-naomi-osaka-wins-first-match-since-heckling-incident-465131">Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident</a>

Aslan Karatsev won 7-5 6-2 against Ugo Humbert and Sebastian Korda beat Albert Ramos-Vinolas 4-6 7-6(3) 6-3.

In the women's field, Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins of the United States beat Vera Zvonareva 6-1 6-4, while Olympic champion Belinda Bencic eased past Britain's Heather Watson 6-4 6-1.

Swiss Bencic, who suffered early exits from Indian Wells earlier this month and Doha in February, launched five aces across the net as Watson struggled on the return and was only able to convert one of eight break points.

In the late contest, Tunisian world number 10 Ons Jabeur defeated Estonia's Kaia Kanepi 6-3 6-0.

Hubert Hurkacz unleashed 17 aces to topple France's Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(5) 6-2 and keep his title defence going at the Miami Open on Saturday as world number two Daniil Medvedev sent twice winner Andy Murray packing and Naomi Osaka advanced on a walkover.

Hubert Hurkacz unleashed 17 aces to topple France's Arthur Rinderknech 7-6(5) 6-2 and keep his title defence going at the Miami Open on Saturday as world number two Daniil Medvedev sent twice winner Andy Murray packing and Naomi Osaka advanced on a walkover. Rinderknech was unable to convert his sole break point in the first set and lost the momentum altogether after the tiebreak, as the 10th-ranked Pole won the first four games of the second set of their second-round clash. Reigning U.S. Open champion Medvedev never faced a break and proved too nimble for three-times Grand Slam winner Murray, dropping just two of his first-serve points in the second set as he won 6-4 6-2. "Playing against Andy is never easy," said Russian Medvedev, who is on a quest to regain his number-one ranking. "Managed to serve well, and I think that was one of the keys today." ALSO READ: Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open Japan's Osaka advanced to the fourth round on a walkover after Czech Karolina Muchova withdrew following an injury she sustained during warm-ups. The four-times Grand Slam champion will next face Alison Riske, who defeated Ann Li 6-2 3-6 6-3 in an all-American clash. Muchova's was the latest injury to mar the women's field in Miami after Garbine Muguruza and Simona Halep pulled out on Thursday. TSITSIPAS PULLS AWAY LATE, ALCARAZ GETS FIRST MIAMI WIN World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas held off strong resistance from American qualifier J.J. Wolf and won 6-4 6-7(5) 6-1. The Greek, who hit 37 winners, will next face Alex de Minaur who defeated fellow Australian Jordan Thompson 6-2 6-3. "He's a fighter," Tsitsipas said of de Minaur. "I really hope to bring out the same kind of level that I brought in the third set and maintain that throughout the match." Spain's 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz secured his maiden win at the Miami event with a comfortable 6-3 6-2 victory against Marton Fucsovics of Hungary. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Former World No. 1 Simona Halep pulls out with leg injury, set to miss three weeks Fresh from collecting the biggest title of his career at Indian Wells, American Taylor Fritz survived a surprise test from Kazakhstani qualifier Mikhail Kukushkin to win 6-3 5-7 6-3. Kukushkin put up a strong defence, with eight of 11 break points saved, but struggled against his opponent`s powerful serve, with the 13th-ranked Fritz launching 10 aces. Fritz drew a picture of the sun and the caption "x 2?" on the on-court camera after the match - a hint that he perhaps was chasing tennis's elusive "sunshine double" of Indian Wells and Miami - but said afterwards that the gesture was intended as a joke. "I'm not coming here expecting to win the tournament or anything. I'm going into it with the same mentality as Indian Wells," he said in a televised interview. "Take it one match at a time." Fritz's Indian Wells quarter-final opponent, Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, dispatched seventh-seeded Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4 6-2 and Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut moved past Pole Kamil Majchrzak 6-3 6-3. SHAPOVALOV, KHACHANOV KNOCKED OUT Canadian Denis Shapovalov lost 6-3 6-4 to Lloyd Harris of South Africa, American Jenson Brooksby defeated Nikoloz Basilashvili 6-3 6-1 and Marin Cilic beat Alexei Popyrin 6-0 6-3. Karen Khachanov lost 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) to Tommy Paul, Daniel Evans suffered a 3-6 6-4 6-3 defeat by qualifier Yoshihito Nishioka and Cristian Garin was knocked out 7-6(2) 6-2 by Pedro Martinez. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident Aslan Karatsev won 7-5 6-2 against Ugo Humbert and Sebastian Korda beat Albert Ramos-Vinolas 4-6 7-6(3) 6-3. In the women's field, Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins of the United States beat Vera Zvonareva 6-1 6-4, while Olympic champion Belinda Bencic eased past Britain's Heather Watson 6-4 6-1. Swiss Bencic, who suffered early exits from Indian Wells earlier this month and Doha in February, launched five aces across the net as Watson struggled on the return and was only able to convert one of eight break points. In the late contest, Tunisian world number 10 Ons Jabeur defeated Estonia's Kaia Kanepi 6-3 6-0.

Miami Open: Hubert Hurkacz on course for title defence, Medvedev topples Murray, Naomi Osaka gets walkover

Rafa Nadal drew within two wins of a record 21st Grand Slam title on Tuesday after claiming a five-set thriller against Denis Shapovalov to grind into the Australian Open semi-finals for the seventh time. On a steamy afternoon at Rod Laver Arena, Nadal suffered a huge scare as Shapovalov roared back from two sets down but the warrior Spaniard found another gear in the decider to prevail 6-3 6-4 4-6 3-6 6-3.

"I was completely destroyed after that," Nadal said on-court after the match, which lasted four hours and eight minutes.

"It`s amazing, honestly, to be in the semi-finals ... For me it`s everything to be able to play one more time here in the Rod Laver Arena."

Nadal narrowly avoided a repeat of last year`s quarter-final in Melbourne when he was sent packing by Stefanos Tsitsipas after taking a two-set lead. Two months ago, the sixth seed wondered whether his career was finished as he struggled to come back from a foot injury, but he will now prepare for his 36th Grand Slam semi-final against Matteo Berrettini or Gael Monfils.

Alarm bells were ringing for the record bid when the 35-year-old dropped the fourth set and exited the court for a medical time-out. But he returned to break Shapovalov in the second game of the decider and kept the Canadian at arm`s length to the finish.

After pushing a volley wide on match-point, Shapovalov turned and smashed his racket into the court in anguish. 
A beaming Nadal spread his arms wide, leant back and pointed to the corners of the stadium, soaking up one of his finer wins at Melbourne Park.

"We can create histories ... but the real truth is that two months ago, we didn`t know if we will be able to be back on Tour at all," he said.

"So here I am. For me it`s just a present of life that I`m here playing tennis again." 
Shapovalov was brave in defeat but will rue the head start he gave Nadal and later on, the double-fault served at 1-0 down in the final set that gifted the Spaniard three break points.

The hot-tempered Canadian tried everything he could think of as he struggled earlier in the match, demanding Nadal receive a code violation for not taking to the court quickly enough at the start of the second set.

"Are you kidding me? You guys are all corrupt," the 14th seed snapped at the chair umpire when denied satisfaction. 
Shapovalov hung in, though, and pounced when Nadal gifted three set points in the third set with a horror service game.

He stepped in and thrashed a stunning cross-court thunderbolt off his backhand to claim the third set, turning the match on its head.

Shapovalov was transformed as Nadal grew sluggish, earning a code violation for breaching the serve clock at 2-1 in the fourth set. After dropping serve and falling 4-1 behind, Nadal called for a trainer, pointed to his stomach and took a tablet.

Wielding his one-handed backhand like a wand, Shapovalov served out the set and seemed certain to repeat the Tsitsipas stunner.

But three break points slipped through his fingers in the decider, allowing Nadal to forge clear and keep the record bid alive.

Rafa Nadal drew within two wins of a record 21st Grand Slam title on Tuesday after claiming a five-set thriller against Denis Shapovalov to grind into the Australian Open semi-finals for the seventh time.

Rafa Nadal drew within two wins of a record 21st Grand Slam title on Tuesday after claiming a five-set thriller against Denis Shapovalov to grind into the Australian Open semi-finals for the seventh time. On a steamy afternoon at Rod Laver Arena, Nadal suffered a huge scare as Shapovalov roared back from two sets down but the warrior Spaniard found another gear in the decider to prevail 6-3 6-4 4-6 3-6 6-3. "I was completely destroyed after that," Nadal said on-court after the match, which lasted four hours and eight minutes. "It`s amazing, honestly, to be in the semi-finals ... For me it`s everything to be able to play one more time here in the Rod Laver Arena." Nadal narrowly avoided a repeat of last year`s quarter-final in Melbourne when he was sent packing by Stefanos Tsitsipas after taking a two-set lead. Two months ago, the sixth seed wondered whether his career was finished as he struggled to come back from a foot injury, but he will now prepare for his 36th Grand Slam semi-final against Matteo Berrettini or Gael Monfils. Alarm bells were ringing for the record bid when the 35-year-old dropped the fourth set and exited the court for a medical time-out. But he returned to break Shapovalov in the second game of the decider and kept the Canadian at arm`s length to the finish. After pushing a volley wide on match-point, Shapovalov turned and smashed his racket into the court in anguish. A beaming Nadal spread his arms wide, leant back and pointed to the corners of the stadium, soaking up one of his finer wins at Melbourne Park. "We can create histories ... but the real truth is that two months ago, we didn`t know if we will be able to be back on Tour at all," he said. "So here I am. For me it`s just a present of life that I`m here playing tennis again." Shapovalov was brave in defeat but will rue the head start he gave Nadal and later on, the double-fault served at 1-0 down in the final set that gifted the Spaniard three break points. The hot-tempered Canadian tried everything he could think of as he struggled earlier in the match, demanding Nadal receive a code violation for not taking to the court quickly enough at the start of the second set. "Are you kidding me? You guys are all corrupt," the 14th seed snapped at the chair umpire when denied satisfaction. Shapovalov hung in, though, and pounced when Nadal gifted three set points in the third set with a horror service game. He stepped in and thrashed a stunning cross-court thunderbolt off his backhand to claim the third set, turning the match on its head. Shapovalov was transformed as Nadal grew sluggish, earning a code violation for breaching the serve clock at 2-1 in the fourth set. After dropping serve and falling 4-1 behind, Nadal called for a trainer, pointed to his stomach and took a tablet. Wielding his one-handed backhand like a wand, Shapovalov served out the set and seemed certain to repeat the Tsitsipas stunner. But three break points slipped through his fingers in the decider, allowing Nadal to forge clear and keep the record bid alive.

Rafael Nadal survives Denis Shapovalov scare in five-set thriller to enter Australian Open semi-finals

Denis Shapovalov upset an out-of-sorts Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 in broiling heat to reach his first Australian Open quarter-final on Sunday.

The Canadian lefthander was magnificent against the German third seed, earning one of his biggest career victories at Margaret Court Arena.

Shapovalov blew a match point with a wild forehand into the tramlines but wrapped up the contest when Zverev netted under pressure.

"Definitely happy with where the game is at," said the ecstatic 22-year-old, long tipped for success at the Grand Slams.

"I think off the ground I was just really playing very well, really feeling my shots off both wings."

The 14th seed will meet Rafa Nadal for a place in the semi-finals.

"It`s always an honour to go up against a guy like Rafa," Shapovalov said of the Spanish great, who is bidding for a record 21st Grand Slam title.

"It`s always going to be a battle against him. It`s going to be a tough one but I`m going to enjoy it." 
It was a disappointing exit for Zverev, who was bundled out of the quarter-finals by Novak Djokovic last year.

Late last year Zverev suggested he and Russian Daniil Medvedev might become part of a new `Big Three` with world number one Djokovic in the 2022 season.

Denis Shapovalov upset an out-of-sorts Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 in broiling heat to reach his first Australian Open quarter-final on Sunday. The Canadian lefthander was magnificent against the German third seed, earning one of his biggest career victories at Margaret Court Arena.

Denis Shapovalov upset an out-of-sorts Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(5) 6-3 in broiling heat to reach his first Australian Open quarter-final on Sunday. The Canadian lefthander was magnificent against the German third seed, earning one of his biggest career victories at Margaret Court Arena. Shapovalov blew a match point with a wild forehand into the tramlines but wrapped up the contest when Zverev netted under pressure. "Definitely happy with where the game is at," said the ecstatic 22-year-old, long tipped for success at the Grand Slams. "I think off the ground I was just really playing very well, really feeling my shots off both wings." The 14th seed will meet Rafa Nadal for a place in the semi-finals. "It`s always an honour to go up against a guy like Rafa," Shapovalov said of the Spanish great, who is bidding for a record 21st Grand Slam title. "It`s always going to be a battle against him. It`s going to be a tough one but I`m going to enjoy it." It was a disappointing exit for Zverev, who was bundled out of the quarter-finals by Novak Djokovic last year. Late last year Zverev suggested he and Russian Daniil Medvedev might become part of a new `Big Three` with world number one Djokovic in the 2022 season.

Denis Shapovalov sends third seed Alexander Zverev crashing out of Australian Open 2022

Denis Shapovalov put in an aggressive display to beat Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-4 6-3 on Sunday and put Canada just one victory away from winning the team-based ATP Cup final.

Carreno Busta came into the evening contest at the Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney brimming with confidence, having not dropped a set all week and with a 4-1 head-to-head record against the 14th-ranked Shapovalov.

But the 22-year-old left-hander survived a barrage of breakpoint chances, including five in the opening game of the match, and held his nerve to claim victory in an hour and 38 minutes to give Canada a 1-0 lead in the tie.

Read Also |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-rushes-to-file-defence-of-novak-djokovic-ban-as-court-battle-looms-443309">Australia rushes to file defence of Novak Djokovic ban as court battle looms</a>

"(I had) a little bit of nerves going out. Obviously I`ve got a tough record against Carreno Busta, so I knew it was going to be a tough match," Shapovalov said.

Canada, the first team in the ATP Cup`s three-year history to have lost a tie en route to the final, were swept by the United States in their opening group tie and also lost their first match against Britain.

But Felix Auger-Aliassime and Shapovalov, who had contracted the novel coronavirus in the leadup to the $10 million team event, bounced back with tie wins over Britain, Germany and then last year`s winners Russia. "It`s a huge win, but we haven`t finished the job," Shapovalov said.

Read Also |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/czech-player-renata-voracova-leaves-australia-over-visa-issues-443235">&nbsp;Czech player Renata Voracova leaves Australia over visa issues</a>

"We just have to keep going. Hopefully Felix can pull through. If not, we have a good chance in the doubles. But full faith in Felix. He`s an amazing player and I think we have a good chance."

Roberto Bautista Agut, who has been 4-0 this year, will meet Auger-Aliassime in the must-win second singles to keep alive the hopes for Spain and ensure they do not end up as runner-up for a second time after losing the 2020 final to Serbia.

Denis Shapovalov put in an aggressive display to beat Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-4 6-3 on Sunday and put Canada just one victory away from winning the team-based ATP Cup final.

Denis Shapovalov put in an aggressive display to beat Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta 6-4 6-3 on Sunday and put Canada just one victory away from winning the team-based ATP Cup final. Carreno Busta came into the evening contest at the Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney brimming with confidence, having not dropped a set all week and with a 4-1 head-to-head record against the 14th-ranked Shapovalov. But the 22-year-old left-hander survived a barrage of breakpoint chances, including five in the opening game of the match, and held his nerve to claim victory in an hour and 38 minutes to give Canada a 1-0 lead in the tie. Read Also | Australia rushes to file defence of Novak Djokovic ban as court battle looms "(I had) a little bit of nerves going out. Obviously I`ve got a tough record against Carreno Busta, so I knew it was going to be a tough match," Shapovalov said. Canada, the first team in the ATP Cup`s three-year history to have lost a tie en route to the final, were swept by the United States in their opening group tie and also lost their first match against Britain. But Felix Auger-Aliassime and Shapovalov, who had contracted the novel coronavirus in the leadup to the $10 million team event, bounced back with tie wins over Britain, Germany and then last year`s winners Russia. "It`s a huge win, but we haven`t finished the job," Shapovalov said. Read Also | Czech player Renata Voracova leaves Australia over visa issues "We just have to keep going. Hopefully Felix can pull through. If not, we have a good chance in the doubles. But full faith in Felix. He`s an amazing player and I think we have a good chance." Roberto Bautista Agut, who has been 4-0 this year, will meet Auger-Aliassime in the must-win second singles to keep alive the hopes for Spain and ensure they do not end up as runner-up for a second time after losing the 2020 final to Serbia.

Denis Shapovalov puts Canada on verge of ATP Cup triumph against Spain

The duo of Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov crashed out of the semi-finals of the men's doubles event at the ongoing St Petersburg Open here on Saturday.

Playing at the centre court in Petersburg Sports and Concert Complex, fourth-seeded Hugo Nysa-Andrey Golubev ousted Indo-Canadian pair by 6-4, 2-6, 4-10.

Bopanna-Shapovalov lost the first set but the duo rallied to win the second set. Hugo Nysa and Andrey Golubev, however, showed nerves of steel in the match tie-break to enter into the final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-rohan-bopanna-denis-shapovalov-bow-out-after-losing-to-andrey-rublev-aslan-karatsev-in-quarters-421013">Indian Wells: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov bow out after losing to Andrey Rublev-Aslan Karatsev in quarters</a>

This was the first time in 2021 that Bopanna played the semi-final at a tournament. His best performance before this week was a quarter-finals finish at the French Open.

On Friday, Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov battled into the semi-finals of the St Petersburg Open with a 6-4, 5-7, 10-7 victory over the Russian pair of Andrey Rublev-Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

The duo of Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov crashed out of the semi-finals of the men's doubles event at the ongoing St Petersburg Open here on Saturday. Playing at the centre court in Petersburg Sports and Concert Complex, fourth-seeded Hugo Nysa-Andrey Golubev ousted Indo-Canadian pair by 6-4, 2-6, 4-10.

The duo of Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov crashed out of the semi-finals of the men's doubles event at the ongoing St Petersburg Open here on Saturday. Playing at the centre court in Petersburg Sports and Concert Complex, fourth-seeded Hugo Nysa-Andrey Golubev ousted Indo-Canadian pair by 6-4, 2-6, 4-10. Bopanna-Shapovalov lost the first set but the duo rallied to win the second set. Hugo Nysa and Andrey Golubev, however, showed nerves of steel in the match tie-break to enter into the final. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov bow out after losing to Andrey Rublev-Aslan Karatsev in quarters This was the first time in 2021 that Bopanna played the semi-final at a tournament. His best performance before this week was a quarter-finals finish at the French Open. On Friday, Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov battled into the semi-finals of the St Petersburg Open with a 6-4, 5-7, 10-7 victory over the Russian pair of Andrey Rublev-Karen Khachanov in the quarter-finals.

St Petersburg Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov bow out after losing in semis

Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov bowed out of BNP Paribas Open on Thursday after losing in straight sets against Aslan Karatsev and Andrey Rublev in a late-night clash at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

With this win, the Russian pair cruised into their maiden ATP Masters 1000 doubles semi-final after taking down the Indo-Canadian duo.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-stars-fall-at-indian-wells-which-struggles-to-draw-a-crowd-420743">US Open stars fall at Indian Wells, which struggles to draw a crowd</a>

The Russians, in only their third tournament together, proved too strong for the duo of Bopanna-Shapovalov as they won 6-4, 6-4. Champions already this year in Doha, they are now 7-1 as a partnership and will face the unseeded Tim Puetz and Michael Venus for a place in their second tour-level final this season.

Both pairs had been rock solid on serve to 4-all in the opening set before the first cracks appeared as Shapovalov was broken on a third break point. Karatsev duly capitalised and served it out at the 30-minute mark as the Russians finished the first set with a perfect 18/18 on first-serve points.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tunisias-ons-jabeur-to-become-first-arab-player-to-crack-top-10-after-reaching-indian-wells-semi-finals-420944">Tunisia's Ons Jabeur to become first Arab player to crack top 10 after reaching Indian Wells semi-finals</a>

Consolidation proved a struggle in the second set as the pairs traded five breaks in seven games before Karatsev raised his level to hold for 5-3. While they missed four match points on Shapovalov`s serve, the Russians advanced a game later at the 67-minute mark.&nbsp;

Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov bowed out of BNP Paribas Open on Thursday after losing in straight sets against Aslan Karatsev and Andrey Rublev in a late-night clash at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Rohan Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov bowed out of BNP Paribas Open on Thursday after losing in straight sets against Aslan Karatsev and Andrey Rublev in a late-night clash at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. With this win, the Russian pair cruised into their maiden ATP Masters 1000 doubles semi-final after taking down the Indo-Canadian duo. ALSO READ: US Open stars fall at Indian Wells, which struggles to draw a crowd The Russians, in only their third tournament together, proved too strong for the duo of Bopanna-Shapovalov as they won 6-4, 6-4. Champions already this year in Doha, they are now 7-1 as a partnership and will face the unseeded Tim Puetz and Michael Venus for a place in their second tour-level final this season. Both pairs had been rock solid on serve to 4-all in the opening set before the first cracks appeared as Shapovalov was broken on a third break point. Karatsev duly capitalised and served it out at the 30-minute mark as the Russians finished the first set with a perfect 18/18 on first-serve points. ALSO READ: Tunisia's Ons Jabeur to become first Arab player to crack top 10 after reaching Indian Wells semi-finals Consolidation proved a struggle in the second set as the pairs traded five breaks in seven games before Karatsev raised his level to hold for 5-3. While they missed four match points on Shapovalov`s serve, the Russians advanced a game later at the 67-minute mark.

Indian Wells: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov bow out after losing to Andrey Rublev-Aslan Karatsev in quarters

Defending champion Novak Djokovic will take on No. 12 seeded Denis Shapovalov in the semi-finals of the Wimbledon 2021 at the Centre Court. Both of them have played six times against each other in the ATP tour and Australian Open, where the Serbian ace defeated the Canadian every time. However, this is the first time both face each other in a Grand Slam Final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-an-opportunity-to-play-in-a-final-here-is-incredible-says-ashleigh-barty-396901" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: An opportunity to play in a final here is incredible, says Ashleigh Barty</a>

This is the chance for Djokovic to win his Golden Grand Slam as the world number one player has already won the Australian Open and French Open this year.&nbsp;

<h2>Here is all you need to know about Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov.</h2>

<h2>Where is the Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov taking place?</h2>

Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov will begin around 8:00 PM IST on Friday, July 9th 2021.

<h2>What is the head-to-head record between Djokovic and Shapovalov?</h2>

Djokovic has won all the matches against Shapovalov.

<h2>When and how to watch the live coverage of Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov?</h2>

The Wimbledon 2021 Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov will be aired live on TV on Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select 2 SD and HD channels.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic will take on No. 12 seeded Denis Shapovalov in the semi-finals of the Wimbledon 2021 at the Centre Court. Both of them have played six times against each other in the ATP tour and Australian Open, where the Serbian ace defeated the Canadian every time.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic will take on No. 12 seeded Denis Shapovalov in the semi-finals of the Wimbledon 2021 at the Centre Court. Both of them have played six times against each other in the ATP tour and Australian Open, where the Serbian ace defeated the Canadian every time. However, this is the first time both face each other in a Grand Slam Final. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: An opportunity to play in a final here is incredible, says Ashleigh Barty This is the chance for Djokovic to win his Golden Grand Slam as the world number one player has already won the Australian Open and French Open this year. Here is all you need to know about Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov. Where is the Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov taking place? Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov will begin around 8:00 PM IST on Friday, July 9th 2021. What is the head-to-head record between Djokovic and Shapovalov? Djokovic has won all the matches against Shapovalov. When and how to watch the live coverage of Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov? The Wimbledon 2021 Wimbledon 2021 Men’s singles semifinal match Novak Djokovic vs Denis Shapovalov will be aired live on TV on Star Sports Select 1 and Star Sports Select 2 SD and HD channels.

Wimbledon 2021, semifinals, Live Streaming: When and where to watch Djokovic vs Shapovalov?

Denis Shapovalov lifted the Wimbledon boys' trophy when Andy Murray reclaimed the men's crown in 2016 and the Canadian will realise his childhood dream on Friday when he makes his Centre Court debut against the home favourite in the third round.

While grass has always been his favourite surface, Shapovalov has so far struggled to make any lasting impression on turf. His job has also been made difficult by a pesky pollen allergy, which flares up on the lush green courts.

But the 22-year-old showed significant improvement on his run to the semi-finals at Queen's Club before breaching the second-round barrier for the first time in four appearances at the All England Club.

"Definitely, I think it's a great moment for me. It's going to be my first time on Centre Court at Wimbledon, so it's super exciting for me, my team and my career," Shapovalov, seeded 10th, told reporters.

"With every year I've felt myself get better on this surface, and I do still think there is a lot of room to grow.

"It's definitely a match I grew up wanting - to play against Andy in the spotlight like this."

While Shapovalov has been enjoying a two-day rest after receiving a second-round walkover from Pablo Andujar, Murray could use a bit more time to recharge his batteries having spent almost 7-1/2 hours on the court during his opening two matches.

Murray was centre stage in another night of drama on Wednesday, roaring back from two sets to one down to beat Oscar Otte and admitted he felt "sharp pain" in his groin, an injury which ruled him out of the claycourt swing.

As much as he was scouting his challenger, Shapovalov could not help but cheer for the 34-year-old, who turned back the clock in front of a raucous home crowd.

"(As) a fan of Andy's, to see him back and moving so well, especially those last two sets, how he turned it around," Shapovalov said. "It felt like he was the player that he was a couple of years back. It was really exciting to see."

In another transatlantic clash on Centre Court, Briton Dan Evans is targeting a place in the second week of the tournament when he takes on American Sebastian Korda.

World number one Novak Djokovic, chasing a sixth Wimbledon title and third in a row, will make a rare appearance on Court One against unseeded American Denis Kudla.

While a mass exodus of top seeds continues in the women's draw, with six of the top 10 knocked out, second seed Aryna Sabalenka is hoping to avoid an upset against Colombian teenager Maria Camila Osorio Serrano.

Denis Shapovalov lifted the Wimbledon boys' trophy when Andy Murray reclaimed the men's crown in 2016 and the Canadian will realise his childhood dream on Friday when he makes his Centre Court debut against the home favourite in the third round.

Denis Shapovalov lifted the Wimbledon boys' trophy when Andy Murray reclaimed the men's crown in 2016 and the Canadian will realise his childhood dream on Friday when he makes his Centre Court debut against the home favourite in the third round. While grass has always been his favourite surface, Shapovalov has so far struggled to make any lasting impression on turf. His job has also been made difficult by a pesky pollen allergy, which flares up on the lush green courts. But the 22-year-old showed significant improvement on his run to the semi-finals at Queen's Club before breaching the second-round barrier for the first time in four appearances at the All England Club. "Definitely, I think it's a great moment for me. It's going to be my first time on Centre Court at Wimbledon, so it's super exciting for me, my team and my career," Shapovalov, seeded 10th, told reporters. "With every year I've felt myself get better on this surface, and I do still think there is a lot of room to grow. "It's definitely a match I grew up wanting - to play against Andy in the spotlight like this." While Shapovalov has been enjoying a two-day rest after receiving a second-round walkover from Pablo Andujar, Murray could use a bit more time to recharge his batteries having spent almost 7-1/2 hours on the court during his opening two matches. Murray was centre stage in another night of drama on Wednesday, roaring back from two sets to one down to beat Oscar Otte and admitted he felt "sharp pain" in his groin, an injury which ruled him out of the claycourt swing. As much as he was scouting his challenger, Shapovalov could not help but cheer for the 34-year-old, who turned back the clock in front of a raucous home crowd. "(As) a fan of Andy's, to see him back and moving so well, especially those last two sets, how he turned it around," Shapovalov said. "It felt like he was the player that he was a couple of years back. It was really exciting to see." In another transatlantic clash on Centre Court, Briton Dan Evans is targeting a place in the second week of the tournament when he takes on American Sebastian Korda. World number one Novak Djokovic, chasing a sixth Wimbledon title and third in a row, will make a rare appearance on Court One against unseeded American Denis Kudla. While a mass exodus of top seeds continues in the women's draw, with six of the top 10 knocked out, second seed Aryna Sabalenka is hoping to avoid an upset against Colombian teenager Maria Camila Osorio Serrano.

Wimbledon 2021: Denis Shapovalov seeks taste of Centre Court against battle-scarred idol Andy Murray

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-angry-djokovic-regains-calm-to-see-off-shapovalov-challenge-191382">Denis&nbsp;Shapovalov</a>&nbsp;won the&nbsp;battle&nbsp;of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;men's team event in Brisbane on Friday.

The baby-faced left-hander, 20, handed Canada an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie with a 7-6(6) 7-6(4) victory in the second rubber against world number six&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;at the Patrick Rafter Arena.

Canada went up 1-0 when Felix Auger-Aliassime claimed a breezy 6-1-6-3 victory over Michail Pervolarakis for the first win in the $15 million&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup, which features 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days.

The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Roger Federer</a>, have arrived in Australia.

The event, however, did not get off to the best possible start with the organisers playing a wrong national anthem for Moldova ahead of their tie against Belgium in Sydney.

Belgium's number two singles player and captain Steve Darcis won the rubber with a 6-4 6-7(4) 7-5 win against Alexander Cozbinov before world number 11 David Goffin settled the tie in the team's favour by defeating Radu Albot 6-4 6-1.

"At the start of the Moldova vs Belgium match we mistakenly played the wrong national anthem for Moldova," the organisers said on the official Twitter handle for the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup. "We are sincerely sorry and have apologised personally to Team Moldova."

The 21-year-old&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;was considered the favourite going into the match against&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;having defeated Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem to win the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-2020-tennis-innovative-24-team-tournament-to-begin-from-january-3-271406">ATP</a>&nbsp;Finals in November.

But&nbsp;Shapovalov, who played brilliantly to lead Canada to its first Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final in November where they eventually went down to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-murray-honoured-at-atp-awards-269400">Rafael Nadal</a>'s Spain, was the better player on the big points against the Greek.

After more than two hours of power-hitting from two of the&nbsp;ATP's most exciting&nbsp;next&nbsp;generation players in a match in which there was no break of serves,&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;converted his first matchpoint when&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;double faulted on his serve.

"It's definitely a huge win for me,"&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;said in an on-court interview. "Obviously, he had an unbelievable end to the season and he's definitely one of the top players in the world right now. He's got a great game.

"So to beat a guy like this in the first match of the year, it's really special for me. It means a lot.

"I think today it was just a couple points here and there, just tried to keep playing my game, keep playing every single point and wait for my chances and I just think that I took advantage really well in the tie-breaks."

Denis Shapovalov won the battle of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural ATP Cup men's team event in Brisbane on Friday.

Denis Shapovalov won the battle of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural ATP Cup men's team event in Brisbane on Friday. The baby-faced left-hander, 20, handed Canada an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie with a 7-6(6) 7-6(4) victory in the second rubber against world number six Tsitsipas at the Patrick Rafter Arena. Canada went up 1-0 when Felix Auger-Aliassime claimed a breezy 6-1-6-3 victory over Michail Pervolarakis for the first win in the $15 million ATP Cup, which features 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days. The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great Roger Federer, have arrived in Australia. The event, however, did not get off to the best possible start with the organisers playing a wrong national anthem for Moldova ahead of their tie against Belgium in Sydney. Belgium's number two singles player and captain Steve Darcis won the rubber with a 6-4 6-7(4) 7-5 win against Alexander Cozbinov before world number 11 David Goffin settled the tie in the team's favour by defeating Radu Albot 6-4 6-1. "At the start of the Moldova vs Belgium match we mistakenly played the wrong national anthem for Moldova," the organisers said on the official Twitter handle for the ATP Cup. "We are sincerely sorry and have apologised personally to Team Moldova." The 21-year-old Tsitsipas was considered the favourite going into the match against Shapovalov having defeated Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem to win the ATP Finals in November. But Shapovalov, who played brilliantly to lead Canada to its first Davis Cup final in November where they eventually went down to Rafael Nadal's Spain, was the better player on the big points against the Greek. After more than two hours of power-hitting from two of the ATP's most exciting next generation players in a match in which there was no break of serves, Shapovalov converted his first matchpoint when Tsitsipas double faulted on his serve. "It's definitely a huge win for me," Shapovalov said in an on-court interview. "Obviously, he had an unbelievable end to the season and he's definitely one of the top players in the world right now. He's got a great game. "So to beat a guy like this in the first match of the year, it's really special for me. It means a lot. "I think today it was just a couple points here and there, just tried to keep playing my game, keep playing every single point and wait for my chances and I just think that I took advantage really well in the tie-breaks."

2020 ATP Cup kicks off with Denis Shapovalov win

Spain's talisman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-powers-spain-into-davis-cup-semis-novak-djokovics-serbia-ousted-263989">Rafael Nadal</a> sealed a sixth Davis Cup title for his country on Sunday when they beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-hurting-hewitt-pans-davis-cup-scheduling-after-australia-eliminated-263860">Canada</a> 2-0 in the final of the revamped event.

After a week of relentless tension and late-night heroics, it was perhaps asking too much for the first final in the Davis Cup's new guise to deliver a classic and so it proved as Spain became the last nation standing of the 18 who assembled in Madrid.

With Spain's King Felipe watching on, the 33-year-old Nadal fought off Canadian youngster Denis Shapovalov 6-3 7-6(7) to give Spain their first title since 2011.

If any player deserved to get his hands on the famous old trophy again it was Nadal after he worked overtime all week, often into the small hours, to win all eight matches he played.

But he surely would have been happy had it been teammate Roberto Bautista Agut to have delivered the winning point.

Bautista Agut had given the hosts a flying start, beating Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3) 6-2 after returning to the squad following the death of his father.

"An amazing week in every way," said Nadal, who has now won 29 successive Davis Cup singles matches since 2004. "The vital person has been Roberto Bautista."

After beating Auger-Aliassime, Bautista Agut was embraced by his captain Sergi Bruguera and there were emotional scenes at the end as roars of "Campiones" echoed around the arena.

"It was a dream day and all the team members have made an incredible effort, especially Rafa, going to sleep at three, four and five in the morning and the next day going out to play," Bautista Agut said. "It can only be because we are Spanish."

For Gerard Pique, the Barcelona soccer player who has made revamping the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Davis Cup</a> into a tennis World Cup his mission, it was the perfect climax to a week in which the new format suffered glitches but could be judged a qualified success.

Too many late nights, one session finishing at 4.07 a.m., a complicated group stage and tiny crowds at some ties mean there is still lots to improve if the $80 million Pique's Kosmos company is investing in the event each year is sustainable.

But Sunday felt like an authentic Davis Cup final, even if an appearance from pop singer&nbsp;Shakira added a little more glamour than usual.

Once the tennis began it quickly became apparent that Canada captain Frank Dancevic's decision to change his lineup for the first time all week might have backfired.

Vasek Pospisil, ranked 150, had been outstanding all week, beating Italy's 12th-ranked Fabio Fognini and American Reilly Opelka in the group phase, taking down Australia's John Millman in the quarter-finals and partnering Shapovalov to a deciding doubles victory over Russia in the semi-final.

Auger-Aliassime, who has been out with an ankle injury, was given his first call of the week but was outplayed by a rock-solid Bautista Agut, who rejoined the squad on Saturday.

That left Shapovalov seemingly facing mission impossible and his only chance was Nadal's tank being dry.

Having come this far there was no chance Nadal would falter, not with 25,000 Spaniards roaring at every whipped winner.

When he took the opening set with a single break it was all feeling a little anti-climactic for the neutrals but Shapovalov injected some late drama into the proceedings.

The Canadian's serve began to click and his groundstrokes finally took the zip out of Nadal's legs.

Incredibly Nadal showed mercy at 6-4 in the tiebreak, failing to put away a short forehand, and Shapovalov arrowed a winner down the line. The Canadian cheered on by hundreds of his countrymen, saved another match point then had a set point of his own but Nadal averted the danger with a heavy serve.

Nadal got to a third match point and this time Shapovalov could not fight back.

Spain's talisman Rafael Nadal sealed a sixth Davis Cup title for his country on Sunday when they beat Canada 2-0 in the final of the revamped event. After a week of relentless tension and late-night heroics, it was perhaps asking too much for the first final in the Davis Cup's new guise to deliver a classic and so it proved as Spain became the last nation standing of the 18 who assembled in Madrid.

Spain's talisman Rafael Nadal sealed a sixth Davis Cup title for his country on Sunday when they beat Canada 2-0 in the final of the revamped event. After a week of relentless tension and late-night heroics, it was perhaps asking too much for the first final in the Davis Cup's new guise to deliver a classic and so it proved as Spain became the last nation standing of the 18 who assembled in Madrid. With Spain's King Felipe watching on, the 33-year-old Nadal fought off Canadian youngster Denis Shapovalov 6-3 7-6(7) to give Spain their first title since 2011. If any player deserved to get his hands on the famous old trophy again it was Nadal after he worked overtime all week, often into the small hours, to win all eight matches he played. But he surely would have been happy had it been teammate Roberto Bautista Agut to have delivered the winning point. Bautista Agut had given the hosts a flying start, beating Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6(3) 6-2 after returning to the squad following the death of his father. "An amazing week in every way," said Nadal, who has now won 29 successive Davis Cup singles matches since 2004. "The vital person has been Roberto Bautista." After beating Auger-Aliassime, Bautista Agut was embraced by his captain Sergi Bruguera and there were emotional scenes at the end as roars of "Campiones" echoed around the arena. "It was a dream day and all the team members have made an incredible effort, especially Rafa, going to sleep at three, four and five in the morning and the next day going out to play," Bautista Agut said. "It can only be because we are Spanish." For Gerard Pique, the Barcelona soccer player who has made revamping the Davis Cup into a tennis World Cup his mission, it was the perfect climax to a week in which the new format suffered glitches but could be judged a qualified success. Too many late nights, one session finishing at 4.07 a.m., a complicated group stage and tiny crowds at some ties mean there is still lots to improve if the $80 million Pique's Kosmos company is investing in the event each year is sustainable. But Sunday felt like an authentic Davis Cup final, even if an appearance from pop singer Shakira added a little more glamour than usual. Once the tennis began it quickly became apparent that Canada captain Frank Dancevic's decision to change his lineup for the first time all week might have backfired. Vasek Pospisil, ranked 150, had been outstanding all week, beating Italy's 12th-ranked Fabio Fognini and American Reilly Opelka in the group phase, taking down Australia's John Millman in the quarter-finals and partnering Shapovalov to a deciding doubles victory over Russia in the semi-final. Auger-Aliassime, who has been out with an ankle injury, was given his first call of the week but was outplayed by a rock-solid Bautista Agut, who rejoined the squad on Saturday. That left Shapovalov seemingly facing mission impossible and his only chance was Nadal's tank being dry. Having come this far there was no chance Nadal would falter, not with 25,000 Spaniards roaring at every whipped winner. When he took the opening set with a single break it was all feeling a little anti-climactic for the neutrals but Shapovalov injected some late drama into the proceedings. The Canadian's serve began to click and his groundstrokes finally took the zip out of Nadal's legs. Incredibly Nadal showed mercy at 6-4 in the tiebreak, failing to put away a short forehand, and Shapovalov arrowed a winner down the line. The Canadian cheered on by hundreds of his countrymen, saved another match point then had a set point of his own but Nadal averted the danger with a heavy serve. Nadal got to a third match point and this time Shapovalov could not fight back.

Rafael Nadal leads Spain to Davis Cup win over Canada

Rafael Nadal admitted he gave everything he had left to lead Spain to their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-delivers-glory-for-spain-as-davis-cup-starts-new-era-264332">sixth Davis Cup success</a> on Sunday after they beat Canada in the final in Madrid.

Nadal's 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Shapovalov confirmed another triumph for Spain after Roberto Bautista Agut had earlier seen off Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.

All five of Spain's squad played a part over the course of the week but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-rafael-nadal-sparks-spanish-comeback-levels-group-b-tie-263277">Nadal's colossal effort</a> in front of the home fans at the Caja Magica proved the difference.

The 33-year-old won eight out of eight rubbers, including two in the singles and doubles in a pulsating win over Britain on Saturday and then the decisive match that clinched the title against Shapovalov.

"I played one of the toughest possible opponents at the end of a long and difficult week, physically too because I put into this whole event all the energy that I had inside me," said Nadal.

"Honestly it's the perfect end to the season for all of us. We know how difficult it is to win this and how difficult it will be to win it again. We knew we had to convert this opportunity."

Feliciano Lopez, who played alongside Nadal during Spain's doubles win against Britain's Jamie Murray and Neal Skupski on Saturday, said Nadal had been a "super-hero".

"There are things you can't describe with words," said Lopez. "The things he produced in doubles yesterday and then today against Shapovalov are things only Rafa can do.

"If you ask me for my opinion, I will tell you he is a super-hero. He can do things none of us can do. He is a great person and an extraordinary tennis player."

At the end of his win, Nadal hoisted up Bautista Agut, who had returned to the team after withdrawing on Thursday due to the death of his father Joaquin.

"It was very difficult," Bautista Agut said. "I took the decision to go home on Thursday morning and I was back yesterday (Saturday) afternoon to support the team.

"I had the opportunity to play today (Sunday) because all the team and all the players and the rest of the team have made an unbelievable effort since the first day. It was an amazing feeling on the court."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-hurting-hewitt-pans-davis-cup-scheduling-after-australia-eliminated-263860">Canada</a> were playing in their first-ever final in the 119-year-old competition and with Shapovalov and Auger-Aliassime, aged 20 and 19 respectively, their Davis Cup prospects look strong.

"Tennis is really hot right now in Canada," said Canada's team captain Frank Dancevic. "It's really wonderful to see this young generation is playing so well. We have a really bright future ahead of us."

"The Canadian team are amazing," added Nadal. "Probably they are going to be one of those teams that will be almost unbeatable in the next couple of years."

Rafael Nadal admitted he gave everything he had left to lead Spain to their sixth Davis Cup success on Sunday after they beat Canada in the final in Madrid. Nadal's 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Shapovalov confirmed another triumph for Spain after Roberto Bautista Agut had earlier seen off Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7/3), 6-3.

Rafael Nadal admitted he gave everything he had left to lead Spain to their sixth Davis Cup success on Sunday after they beat Canada in the final in Madrid. Nadal's 6-3, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Shapovalov confirmed another triumph for Spain after Roberto Bautista Agut had earlier seen off Felix Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7/3), 6-3. All five of Spain's squad played a part over the course of the week but Nadal's colossal effort in front of the home fans at the Caja Magica proved the difference. The 33-year-old won eight out of eight rubbers, including two in the singles and doubles in a pulsating win over Britain on Saturday and then the decisive match that clinched the title against Shapovalov. "I played one of the toughest possible opponents at the end of a long and difficult week, physically too because I put into this whole event all the energy that I had inside me," said Nadal. "Honestly it's the perfect end to the season for all of us. We know how difficult it is to win this and how difficult it will be to win it again. We knew we had to convert this opportunity." Feliciano Lopez, who played alongside Nadal during Spain's doubles win against Britain's Jamie Murray and Neal Skupski on Saturday, said Nadal had been a "super-hero". "There are things you can't describe with words," said Lopez. "The things he produced in doubles yesterday and then today against Shapovalov are things only Rafa can do. "If you ask me for my opinion, I will tell you he is a super-hero. He can do things none of us can do. He is a great person and an extraordinary tennis player." At the end of his win, Nadal hoisted up Bautista Agut, who had returned to the team after withdrawing on Thursday due to the death of his father Joaquin. "It was very difficult," Bautista Agut said. "I took the decision to go home on Thursday morning and I was back yesterday (Saturday) afternoon to support the team. "I had the opportunity to play today (Sunday) because all the team and all the players and the rest of the team have made an unbelievable effort since the first day. It was an amazing feeling on the court." Canada were playing in their first-ever final in the 119-year-old competition and with Shapovalov and Auger-Aliassime, aged 20 and 19 respectively, their Davis Cup prospects look strong. "Tennis is really hot right now in Canada," said Canada's team captain Frank Dancevic. "It's really wonderful to see this young generation is playing so well. We have a really bright future ahead of us." "The Canadian team are amazing," added Nadal. "Probably they are going to be one of those teams that will be almost unbeatable in the next couple of years."

I had nothing left to give, says Rafael Nadal after Spain win Davis Cup

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age.

Federer will have little time to rest his 37-year-old legs before his clash against 19-year-old Denis Shapovalov, the highly regarded Canadian talent tipped for future Grand Slam success.

Twentieth seed Shapovalov won his battle of 'Next Gen' hustlers 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2 against American Frances Tiafoe.

Shapovalov is one of two Canadian teenagers in the semis, with 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime to play defending champion John Isner in the daytime, before Federer and Shapovalov face off under lights.

Federer has won 100 career titles, 100 more than Shapovalov, and was looking forward to the pair's first match-up.

"He's one of the big shotmakers in the game. I love his forehand," Federer said.

"It's an exciting draw for John and for myself here, playing these young guys. They are not just young, but they are very good, as well."

The Swiss raced through the first set against Anderson, the man who came from two sets down to beat him in a quarter-final marathon at Wimbledon last year.

Anderson took nine games to get on the board but eventually found his groove and broke back with a series of return winners to level at 3-3 in the second set.

Federer struck the decisive blow at 4-4, however, winning a marathon game of 22 points and clinching the break with a fortuitous backhand return down the line.

"I hit it late and that's why it went short," he said of the shot. "That's not what I wanted to do but maybe what it took. I got a bit lucky there at the end."

Canadian tennis on the rise

Shapovalov broke Tiafoe four times and could hardly stop smiling at the prospect of playing Federer.

"It's definitely a matchup I have been looking forward to my whole life," he said.

"It's going to be a dream come true to play him in such a big event. The stakes are so high, semi-final of a Masters 1000 against your idol, it's just a dream come true."

Shapovalov also spoke about what appears to be a bright future for Canadian tennis.

He and Auger-Aliassime are in the Miami semis less than two weeks after 18-year-old Bianca Andreescu won the WTA tournament at Indian Wells.

"It's kind of crazy to share this with Felix," Shapovalov said.

"I was just thinking in the locker room how far back we go, from the national groupings when we were eight and nine years old, so it's so crazy to see how far we have come.

"It's really great to see him doing well. Honestly, it's not a shocker for me that he's gone this far, that he's doing so well."

Roger Federer gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age.

Roger Federer gained a measure of revenge against Wimbledon nemesis Kevin Anderson, beating the South African 6-0, 6-4 at the Miami Open on Thursday to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against a player barely half his age. Federer will have little time to rest his 37-year-old legs before his clash against 19-year-old Denis Shapovalov, the highly regarded Canadian talent tipped for future Grand Slam success. Twentieth seed Shapovalov won his battle of 'Next Gen' hustlers 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2 against American Frances Tiafoe. Shapovalov is one of two Canadian teenagers in the semis, with 18-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime to play defending champion John Isner in the daytime, before Federer and Shapovalov face off under lights. Federer has won 100 career titles, 100 more than Shapovalov, and was looking forward to the pair's first match-up. "He's one of the big shotmakers in the game. I love his forehand," Federer said. "It's an exciting draw for John and for myself here, playing these young guys. They are not just young, but they are very good, as well." The Swiss raced through the first set against Anderson, the man who came from two sets down to beat him in a quarter-final marathon at Wimbledon last year. Anderson took nine games to get on the board but eventually found his groove and broke back with a series of return winners to level at 3-3 in the second set. Federer struck the decisive blow at 4-4, however, winning a marathon game of 22 points and clinching the break with a fortuitous backhand return down the line. "I hit it late and that's why it went short," he said of the shot. "That's not what I wanted to do but maybe what it took. I got a bit lucky there at the end." Canadian tennis on the rise Shapovalov broke Tiafoe four times and could hardly stop smiling at the prospect of playing Federer. "It's definitely a matchup I have been looking forward to my whole life," he said. "It's going to be a dream come true to play him in such a big event. The stakes are so high, semi-final of a Masters 1000 against your idol, it's just a dream come true." Shapovalov also spoke about what appears to be a bright future for Canadian tennis. He and Auger-Aliassime are in the Miami semis less than two weeks after 18-year-old Bianca Andreescu won the WTA tournament at Indian Wells. "It's kind of crazy to share this with Felix," Shapovalov said. "I was just thinking in the locker room how far back we go, from the national groupings when we were eight and nine years old, so it's so crazy to see how far we have come. "It's really great to see him doing well. Honestly, it's not a shocker for me that he's gone this far, that he's doing so well."

Miami Open: Roger Federer beats Kevin Anderson to set up Denis Shapovalov clash

Top seed Novak Djokovic regained his composure after a third-set meltdown to stave off the challenge of Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov and reach the fourth round of the Australian Open with a 6-3 6-4 4-6 6-0 victory on Saturday.

The 14-time Grand Slam winner stamped his authority early on by breaking the 19-year-old's serve three times and converted his only break point opportunity in the second set while leading 5-4 to take a 2-0 lead.

The 31-year-old lost his cool in the third set, however, after his request to turn off the artificial lights was ignored and he muttered to himself angrily and before losing two consecutive break of serves to concede the set.

The Serb let out his frustration with a huge roar when he broke Shapovalov early in the fourth, though, and romped through the rest of the set to remain on course for an unprecedented seventh title at Melbourne Park.

The reigning Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion will next meet Russian 15th seed Daniil Medvedev, who notched up his best Grand Slam showing till date by reaching the fourth round with a 6-2 7-6(3) 6-3 win over David Goffin of Belgium earlier in the day.

Top seed Novak Djokovic regained his composure after a third-set meltdown to stave off the challenge of Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov and reach the fourth round of the Australian Open with a 6-3 6-4 4-6 6-0 victory on Saturday.

Top seed Novak Djokovic regained his composure after a third-set meltdown to stave off the challenge of Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov and reach the fourth round of the Australian Open with a 6-3 6-4 4-6 6-0 victory on Saturday. The 14-time Grand Slam winner stamped his authority early on by breaking the 19-year-old's serve three times and converted his only break point opportunity in the second set while leading 5-4 to take a 2-0 lead. The 31-year-old lost his cool in the third set, however, after his request to turn off the artificial lights was ignored and he muttered to himself angrily and before losing two consecutive break of serves to concede the set. The Serb let out his frustration with a huge roar when he broke Shapovalov early in the fourth, though, and romped through the rest of the set to remain on course for an unprecedented seventh title at Melbourne Park. The reigning Wimbledon and U.S. Open champion will next meet Russian 15th seed Daniil Medvedev, who notched up his best Grand Slam showing till date by reaching the fourth round with a 6-2 7-6(3) 6-3 win over David Goffin of Belgium earlier in the day.

Australian Open: Angry Djokovic regains calm to see off Shapovalov challenge

Mum's the word: Serena has fences to mend

Third seed Marin Cilic eased into the second round of the Swiss Indoors tournament with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over young Canadian Denis Shapovalov in Basel on Monday.

The Croatian, who was champion in Basel in 2016 and can seal a spot at the ATP Finals if he wins the title again this year, opened up a 4-0 lead in the first set before 19-year-old Shapovalov got on the scoreboard.

The Canadian wilted further in the second set, however, and his cause was not helped by his 23 unforced errors as Cilic wrapped up a routine victory in one hour and 15 minutes.

Next up for Cilic is Romanian qualifier Marius Copil, who beat American Ryan Harrison 6-2, 7-6(8).

Taylor Fritz also cruised into the second round with a 6-0 7-5 win over Serbia's Laslo Djere and the American will face Swiss wild card Henri Laaksonen next.

Top seed Roger Federer kicks off his campaign at his home tournament on Tuesday when he faces world number 35 Filip Krajinovic of Serbia in the second round.

Third seed Marin Cilic eased into the second round of the Swiss Indoors tournament with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over young Canadian Denis Shapovalov in Basel on Monday.

Third seed Marin Cilic eased into the second round of the Swiss Indoors tournament with a 6-4, 6-2 victory over young Canadian Denis Shapovalov in Basel on Monday. The Croatian, who was champion in Basel in 2016 and can seal a spot at the ATP Finals if he wins the title again this year, opened up a 4-0 lead in the first set before 19-year-old Shapovalov got on the scoreboard. The Canadian wilted further in the second set, however, and his cause was not helped by his 23 unforced errors as Cilic wrapped up a routine victory in one hour and 15 minutes. Next up for Cilic is Romanian qualifier Marius Copil, who beat American Ryan Harrison 6-2, 7-6(8). Taylor Fritz also cruised into the second round with a 6-0 7-5 win over Serbia's Laslo Djere and the American will face Swiss wild card Henri Laaksonen next. Top seed Roger Federer kicks off his campaign at his home tournament on Tuesday when he faces world number 35 Filip Krajinovic of Serbia in the second round.

Marin Cilic downs Shapovalov to reach second round in Basel

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga d&nbsp;Denis Shapovalov,&nbsp;3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5

Former winner Jo-Wilfried Tsonga fought back to vanquish rising Canadian star Denis Shapovalov in a five-set thriller at the Australian Open on Wednesday.

The 15th seed looked dead and buried trailing 2-5 in the final set before 18-year-old Shapovalov faltered and the experienced Frenchman seized the initiative.

Tsonga stormed into the third round after a 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 win in 3hr 37min on Margaret Court Arena and will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia&#39;s Viktor Troicki in the third round.

It ended his three-match losing run in five-setters and reversed his loss to Shapovalov in straight sets in the second round at last year&#39;s US Open.

&quot;I&#39;m tired, but really happy,&quot; Tsonga said. &quot;I did a big fight today.

&quot;It&#39;s not easy against these young guns, they go for everything, but I just continued to fight.&quot;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
.<a href="https://twitter.com/tsonga7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tsonga7</a> is CLUTCH ???? 
 
The Frenchman wins five straight games in the fifth to d <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shapovalov?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shapovalov</a> 3-6 6-3 1-6 7-6(4) 7-5. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/tv71nleAyV">pic.twitter.com/tv71nleAyV</a>
&mdash; #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/953502594193702913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

It extended Tsonga&#39;s record at the Australian Open to 36-10 after he was runner-up to Novak Djokovic in 2008 final.

Shapovalov quickly jumped out of the blocks, breaking misfiring Tsonga in the fourth game on the way to taking the opening set in 34 minutes.

Tsonga picked up his game and levelled one set all with a service break in the sixth game.

But the Canadian teen hit back, taking the third set with some sensational shot-making, including a running backhand winner on break point and then breaking again in the sixth game.

Tsonga stayed alive and took the match into a fifth set decider in a resolute tiebreaker.

Shapovalov began the final set strongly, breaking Tsonga in the second game and then holding off break points in the following game.

But Tsonga would not yield and broke Shapovalov as he attempted to serve out the match, breaking with a crosscourt backhand.

Shapovalov began to falter as Tsonga stepped up the pressure and broke the young Canadian again in the 11th game to hit the front 6-5. He didn&#39;t need a second chance as he served out strongly for the match.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tsonga will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia's Viktor Troicki in the third round

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga d Denis Shapovalov, 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 Former winner Jo-Wilfried Tsonga fought back to vanquish rising Canadian star Denis Shapovalov in a five-set thriller at the Australian Open on Wednesday. The 15th seed looked dead and buried trailing 2-5 in the final set before 18-year-old Shapovalov faltered and the experienced Frenchman seized the initiative. Tsonga stormed into the third round after a 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 7-5 win in 3hr 37min on Margaret Court Arena and will face either Australian 17th seed Nick Kyrgios or Serbia's Viktor Troicki in the third round. It ended his three-match losing run in five-setters and reversed his loss to Shapovalov in straight sets in the second round at last year's US Open. "I'm tired, but really happy," Tsonga said. "I did a big fight today. "It's not easy against these young guns, they go for everything, but I just continued to fight." .@tsonga7 is CLUTCH ???? The Frenchman wins five straight games in the fifth to d #Shapovalov 3-6 6-3 1-6 7-6(4) 7-5. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/tv71nleAyV — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018 × It extended Tsonga's record at the Australian Open to 36-10 after he was runner-up to Novak Djokovic in 2008 final. Shapovalov quickly jumped out of the blocks, breaking misfiring Tsonga in the fourth game on the way to taking the opening set in 34 minutes. Tsonga picked up his game and levelled one set all with a service break in the sixth game. But the Canadian teen hit back, taking the third set with some sensational shot-making, including a running backhand winner on break point and then breaking again in the sixth game. Tsonga stayed alive and took the match into a fifth set decider in a resolute tiebreaker. Shapovalov began the final set strongly, breaking Tsonga in the second game and then holding off break points in the following game. But Tsonga would not yield and broke Shapovalov as he attempted to serve out the match, breaking with a crosscourt backhand. Shapovalov began to falter as Tsonga stepped up the pressure and broke the young Canadian again in the 11th game to hit the front 6-5. He didn't need a second chance as he served out strongly for the match.

Australian Open: Tsonga races to third round, outplays Denis Shapovalov

Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov shocked top seeded Rafael Nadal to reach the quarter-finals of the ATP Montreal Masters tournament, spoiling the Spaniard&#39;s chances of returning to world number one.

The 18-year-old Shapovalov continued his giant killing form at the hard-court tournament by rallying to stun Nadal in three sets 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) on Thursday.

&quot;I was just swinging for the fences,&quot; said Shapovalov, who needed a wild card to get into the tournament.

The 31-year-old Nadal would have returned to No. 1 in the world if he reached the semi-finals.

But Nadal struggled to get the ball to Shapovalov&#39;s backhand and didn&#39;t have an answer for the Canadian&#39;s blistering forehand winners.

&quot;He played well. He has great potential,&quot; Nadal said. &quot;I wish him the best. He played with the right determination.&quot;

Shapovalov&#39;s biggest win of his young career against the 15-time Grand Slam winner came as a result of some inspired tennis in front of a boisterous home crowd who cheered his every shot.

Shapovalov, who is ranked 143rd in the world, had just three wins this season coming into the tournament. He quickly got on a roll in Montreal, beating Brazil&#39;s Rogerio Dutra Silva in the opening round 4-6, 7-6 (10/8), 6-4. He then defeated former US Open winner Juan Martin Del Potro in the second round in straight sets 6-3 7-6 (7/4) to set up the showdown with Nadal.

Shapovalov fell behind 3-0 before winning seven of the final eight points of the third set tiebreaker. He closed out the match with a forehand winner down the line and celebrated by falling onto his back then covering his face with his hands.

Nadal easily won the first set but couldn&#39;t put the free-swinging Canadian away with a second set victory.

The third game of the second set lasted 14 minutes with Shapovalov finally holding serve when Nadal&#39;s volley sailed into the net. Shapovalov managed to win the game despite double faulting three times.

&quot;Was it only 14 minutes?&quot; Shapovalov asked. &quot;It felt like three hours.&nbsp;

&quot;I just kept fighting. I knew it was going to be really tough. I went for my shots in the big moments and I caught a couple of lines got a little bit lucky but at the end of the day that is what tennis is.&quot;

Shapovalov said he didn&#39;t think he had a chance to win at all before the match. It wasn&#39;t until he levelled the sets at one each that he realized he could beat the 10-time French Open champion.

&quot;The whole day I was like - there&#39;s no chance. I will go and have fun but there is no way I am beating this guy,&quot; Shapovalov said.

&quot;I went up a break in the second set early and even though he broke me back I felt like - OK, I am capable of breaking him.

&quot;So when I won that second set I thought let&#39;s go one more set and who knows, anything can happen.&quot;

Shapovalov blasted a total of nine aces, including some on his second serve. He also had seven double faults and won 67 per cent of his first serve points.

&quot;It is incredible. I can&#39;t even talk right now. I grew up watching Rafa so just to be able to compete with him is one thing but to come out winning is a dream come true for me.&quot;

Nadal won 77 per cent of his first serve points, but had just two aces and six double faults in the two hour, 45-minute center court match.&nbsp;

Elsewhere on Thursday, Roger Federer maintained his career-long winning streak over David Ferrer to advance to the quarter-finals after a three-set battle with the veteran Spaniard.

Federer, 36, had never lost in 16 previous meetings with the 35-year-old Ferrer, whom he first defeated 14 years ago at the Vienna Indoor tournament.

But while Ferrer managed to take the opening set -- ending Federer&#39;s 32-set streak -- the Swiss ace raised his game to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.

&quot;I actually feel really happy because I know I can play a lot better. David can play a lot better, too,&quot; Federer said.&nbsp;

&quot;We battled, both tried to find a way to win. You know, he had a good start, I had a better finish.&quot;

In other matches Thursday, Germany&#39;s Alexander Zverev defeated Nick Kyrgios 6-4, 6-3, Roberto Bautista outlasted Gael Monfils 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/2) and Kevin Anderson of South Africa cruised past Sam Querrey 6-4, 6-1.

Nadal easily won the first set but couldn't put the free-swinging Canadian away with a second set victory.

Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov shocked top seeded Rafael Nadal to reach the quarter-finals of the ATP Montreal Masters tournament, spoiling the Spaniard's chances of returning to world number one. The 18-year-old Shapovalov continued his giant killing form at the hard-court tournament by rallying to stun Nadal in three sets 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) on Thursday. "I was just swinging for the fences," said Shapovalov, who needed a wild card to get into the tournament. The 31-year-old Nadal would have returned to No. 1 in the world if he reached the semi-finals. But Nadal struggled to get the ball to Shapovalov's backhand and didn't have an answer for the Canadian's blistering forehand winners. "He played well. He has great potential," Nadal said. "I wish him the best. He played with the right determination." Shapovalov's biggest win of his young career against the 15-time Grand Slam winner came as a result of some inspired tennis in front of a boisterous home crowd who cheered his every shot. Shapovalov, who is ranked 143rd in the world, had just three wins this season coming into the tournament. He quickly got on a roll in Montreal, beating Brazil's Rogerio Dutra Silva in the opening round 4-6, 7-6 (10/8), 6-4. He then defeated former US Open winner Juan Martin Del Potro in the second round in straight sets 6-3 7-6 (7/4) to set up the showdown with Nadal. Shapovalov fell behind 3-0 before winning seven of the final eight points of the third set tiebreaker. He closed out the match with a forehand winner down the line and celebrated by falling onto his back then covering his face with his hands. Nadal easily won the first set but couldn't put the free-swinging Canadian away with a second set victory. The third game of the second set lasted 14 minutes with Shapovalov finally holding serve when Nadal's volley sailed into the net. Shapovalov managed to win the game despite double faulting three times. "Was it only 14 minutes?" Shapovalov asked. "It felt like three hours. "I just kept fighting. I knew it was going to be really tough. I went for my shots in the big moments and I caught a couple of lines got a little bit lucky but at the end of the day that is what tennis is." Shapovalov said he didn't think he had a chance to win at all before the match. It wasn't until he levelled the sets at one each that he realized he could beat the 10-time French Open champion. "The whole day I was like - there's no chance. I will go and have fun but there is no way I am beating this guy," Shapovalov said. "I went up a break in the second set early and even though he broke me back I felt like - OK, I am capable of breaking him. "So when I won that second set I thought let's go one more set and who knows, anything can happen." Shapovalov blasted a total of nine aces, including some on his second serve. He also had seven double faults and won 67 per cent of his first serve points. "It is incredible. I can't even talk right now. I grew up watching Rafa so just to be able to compete with him is one thing but to come out winning is a dream come true for me." Nadal won 77 per cent of his first serve points, but had just two aces and six double faults in the two hour, 45-minute center court match. Elsewhere on Thursday, Roger Federer maintained his career-long winning streak over David Ferrer to advance to the quarter-finals after a three-set battle with the veteran Spaniard. Federer, 36, had never lost in 16 previous meetings with the 35-year-old Ferrer, whom he first defeated 14 years ago at the Vienna Indoor tournament. But while Ferrer managed to take the opening set -- ending Federer's 32-set streak -- the Swiss ace raised his game to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. "I actually feel really happy because I know I can play a lot better. David can play a lot better, too," Federer said. "We battled, both tried to find a way to win. You know, he had a good start, I had a better finish." In other matches Thursday, Germany's Alexander Zverev defeated Nick Kyrgios 6-4, 6-3, Roberto Bautista outlasted Gael Monfils 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/2) and Kevin Anderson of South Africa cruised past Sam Querrey 6-4, 6-1.

Canadian teenager beats Nadal at Montreal Masters

denis-shapovalov

Denis Shapovalov, News on Denis Shapovalov, stories on Denis Shapovalov, articles on Denis Shapovalov, Denis Shapovalov stories at Wion, Denis Shapovalov news, Denis Shapovalov latest news

denis shapovalov