On Wednesday afternoon, second seed Dominic Thiem of Austria banked his first victory in six appearances at Rogers Cup presented by National Bank at IGA Stadium.
To clinch the win, he disposed of Canadian Denis Shapovalov in three intense sets (6-4, 3-6, 6-3) in just under two hours.
The players stayed on nearly level terms up until the very end, with Thiem racking up 76 points versus 74 for the favourite. However, what set them apart was their ability to make big points. The World No.32 only converted one of five break points, while his opponent pocketed the two he earned.
Still, Shapovalov gained ten aces (versus nine for Thiem), made only four double faults (six for Thiem) and hit 84% of his first serves in (80% for Thiem).
The Canadian and Austrian collided for the second time in their careers. Thiem won their last match in two quick sets on the hard in Acapulco. At least Shapovalov can say he’s progressed.
-
Inside the Lines: The Challenge and Importance of the Sunshine Double
March 21, 2023
- Carlos Alcaraz Returns to No. 1 With Victory in Indian Wells March 20, 2023
- Inside the Lines: Indian Wells – Tennis’ Unofficial Fifth Slam March 14, 2023
- Inside the Lines: MaliVai Washington Continues to Inspire March 7, 2023
