In an exciting matchup between two dynamic younger players, Tommy Paul will take on Denis Shapovalov in the final at the ATP Stockholm Open. Paul will be looking for his career ATP Tour singles title while Shapovalov, who won the title in 2019, is looking for his second. Who will lift the winner’s trophy in this fascinating final?
ATP Stockholm Open Final
Tommy Paul vs Denis Shapovalov
Head-to-head: first meeting
Paul came back from the brink of defeat against Frances Tiafoe in the semifinals. Tiafoe served for the match 7-5, *6-5, but Paul never gave up and was able to break back, took a tight tiebreak, and then broke early in the third set, riding that break to victory. It was a very solid serving performance for Paul, who served 10 aces, 0 double faults, and won 69% of his service points while putting 64% of his first serves in play. Paul also had a good three-set win over Andy Murray, bullying Murray from the baseline with his heavy forehand.
Shapovalov, meanwhile, beat his compatriot Felix Auger-Aliassime in straight sets to advance to the final. Shapovalov put together a very composed performance, putting 72% of his first serves in play, winning 70% of those points, and breaking Auger-Aliassime’s serve four times across the two sets. Shapovalov clearly enjoys playing in Stockholm, as evidenced by his previous title.
These two have never played before. This will be an interesting battle to see who can gain control of the baseline. Paul will be looking to direct his heavy righty forehand into the Shapovalov backhand, while Shapovalov will be looking to do the same with his lefty forehand. This will be Paul’s first singles final on the ATP Tour, a big occasion for the American.
Shapovalov, on the other hand, has played in three finals, including at this very venue, where he beat Filip Krajinovic, and at the Paris Masters in 2019. That means something. Shapovalov also has the slightly stronger serve and is slightly more powerful from the baseline. The stars seem aligned for Shapovalov’s second-career ATP Tour singles title.
Prediction: Shapovalov in 2
Main photo:
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