Denis Shapovalov wins all-Canadian contest for chance to retain Stockholm title

Denis Shapovalov can make it two titles in a row in the Swedish capital after he ousted compatriot Felix Auger-Aliassime to reach the final there.

Shapovalov was 2-3 down in their head-to-head coming into the match. In fact, Auger-Aliassime had won both of their last two meetings, both in 2021.

But Shapovalov was able to reverse that trend as he defeated his countryman 6-4, 7-5 to level the match-up 3-3.

“[I have] very few words right now,” he began in his post-match interview. “I just came out playing exceptional tennis today so I’m really happy.

“Fought very well and thank you guys so much (the crowd). Obviously it’s a great court for me, so thank you for all the support.”

The victory takes Shapovalov past 30 season wins for the third time in his career, previously passing the mark in 2018 and 2019.

“Felix [Auger-Aliassime] is an incredible player so I knew I had to come out and really play big.

“We know each other so well. So, it’s a different kind of match when we come out [and play] against each other.

“But, like I said I enjoy playing here so much and I feel like I’ve been able to bring some great tennis throughout the year so I’m very happy for that.”

Shapovalov will face American Tommy Paul after he too defeated a fellow countryman in Frances Tiafoe in the earlier semi-final.

The two men have never faced each other before. Paul is looking to claim a first ever ATP title with a first final appearance.

Meanwhile Shapovalov is into his fourth career final and second in 2021 as he aims for his second career title.

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