Denis Shapovalov’s home Masters event in Canada was the location for what may still be his greatest ever win. In 2017 he defeated 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal 3-6 6-4 7-6 in front of his home fans at the age of just 18. It announced the current Canadian #2 to the tennis world in a truly unforgettable evening of drama.
Reason for Shapovalov’s withdrawal
Unfortunately, Shapovalov will not have an opportunity to try and recreate some of that magic this year. The 2021 Wimbledon semifinalist has been forced to withdraw from the Masters 1000 event with a knee injury. The injury was affecting Shapovalov throughout his run to the fourth round of Wimbledon this year, and got progressively worse until the pain became close to unbearable during his fourth round loss to Roman Safiullin. The six-time ATP finalist has not played a match since Wimbledon.
Shapovalov spoke after losing to Safiullin about the possibility of a longer spell not playing to let his knee recover, and thought it would take a minimum of two months. The current world #22 is being cautious with the US Open just a few weeks away, starting August 28th. Shapovalov had an epic five-set battle with Andrey Rublev at last year’s tournament at Flushing Meadows. He will need to be fully fit to play at that high level again. Hopefully the extra recovery time helps him do that.
Who will replace Shapovalov in the main draw?
As things stand Shapovalov’s place in the main draw is taken by Kei Nishikori. But The former US Open finalist felt pain in his troublesome knee during the Atlanta Open. As a result Nishikori withdrew from the ATP 500 event in Washington this week. Hence it remains to be seen if the Japanese player will be recovered enough to enter Canada’s National Bank Open. It is possible he might show similar caution to Shapovalov and make sure he is fit for the US Open. Nishikori is even more likely to avoid any risks after the 20-month injury layoff he had.
If Nishikori does withdraw, the place would then be given to Frenchman Gregoire Barrere. The world #62 is currently competing at the event in Washington, and had a good first round victory against the talented Shintaro Mochizuki.
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
