“It’s a dream come true” – Denis Shapovalov

Denis Shapovalov picked the right time to sign one of his most brilliant performances at a Grand Slam on Friday. The Canadian won 6-4, 6-2, 6-2 over Andy Murray in the middle of Wimbledon.

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The Canadian, 10th in the competition, left no chance for the former London champion in this third round match.

Southpaw took control from the start, making a 5-1 lead. However, despite turning 34, Murray found a way to get back into the game by winning by three consecutive points. On the other hand, Shapovalov maintained his composure to remove the first set.

In the second set, we saw a similar scenario where ‘Shapo’ led early 4-1 thanks to two servings. The match was held in the sixth half.

While on duty, the 22-year-old saved five break points to make it 5-1. During this long sequence, he made two double mistakes and put him in a delicate position. However, he managed to get it.

” a hero “

After closing the central court roof at the end of the second set, Shapovalov reclaimed his first serve. He had eight aces to claim a decisive win in three sets.

“It’s a dream come true,” Shapovalov said on court after his victory. When I was working hard in training when I was a young player, it was this kind of moment to experience. ”

“It was amazing to be able to take on a legend who was an inspiration to me and so many other people. Champion. It’s an honor to be able to play a game in the middle. It was so intense and I gave everything I had.”

He considers it one of his best matches at Wimbledon, but also since his professional debut.

“It’s one of my best performances of my career,” he added 12^e global player. I hardly gave anything to my opponent. You are very solid. “

hostile crowd

In addition to the British hit today 118^e ATP, Shapovalov had the upper hand over volatile ground and a hostile crowd. There are two factors that do not appear on the score sheet, but they can be important in the outcome of the match.

“I knew the crowd would be on Andy’s side and that’s very normal,” Shapovalov told a news conference. I focused on myself and my game.”

“I tried to be competitive on all points and I felt like I participated in all of them. I am very happy with this aspect. I set the pace for discussions as soon as I had the opportunity.”

In the next round, he will face the Spanish eighth seed Roberto Bautista Agut. Shapovalov will aim for his second participation in the quarter-final stage of the Grand Slam tournament.

“It will be difficult. The Canadian analyzed that it gives almost nothing to the opponent. I will have to work to earn every point. I expect a long fight.”

► Vasek Pospisil and his American partner Nicholas Monroe were eliminated in doubles by British duo Jimmy Murray and Brazilian Bruno Soares 6-1, 6-7 (5), 6-1.

► He will face Australian Felix Auger-Aliassime Nick Kyrgios in the third round on Saturday. The game is scheduled to start around 10 AM KST.