Shapovalov halts Nadal’s bid to become World Number 1 in Montreal

Rafael Nada’s quest to reclaim the Number 1 spot was halted by home hope Dennis Shapovalov in a 3 set thriller at the Rogers Cup. 10 time French Open champion who was seeded number 1 in the absence of Andy Murray and could have overtaken the Scot for the top spot by reaching the semis was shocked by the 18 year old Canadian who was awarded a wild card for the tournament.

Shapovalov’s stunning upset against the reigning French Open champion came as a result of some inspired tennis in front of a boisterous home crowd who cheered his every shot.

Shapovalov 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 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 won seven of the final eight points of the third set tiebreaker before closing out the match with a forehand winner down the line. He celebrated by falling onto his back then covering his face with his hands.

Shapovalov blasted a total of nine aces, including ones on his second serve that handcuffed Nadal. He also had seven double faults and won 67 percent of his first serve points.

Federer continues unbeaten run against Ferrer

19 time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer who turned 36 on August 8th maintained a clean slate over Spaniard David Ferrer to 17-0 after being 1 set down in the opener. Should Federer win in Montreal he would have a chance of becoming the World Number 1 in the next tournament he is scheduled to play overtaking Nadal and Murray.