Shapovalov Advances to Mexican Open QFs After 6-3 Win Over Michelsen

Summary:

• Denis Shapovalov defeated Alex Michelsen 6-4, 6-3, dominating early in both sets and converting four of six break points.
• The Canadian fired three aces and committed three double faults, while Michelsen struggled with five double faults and no aces.
• Shapovalov will face Marcos Giron next, who holds a 2-0 record against him, including a recent win in January.

Denis Shapovalov secured a spot in the ATP 500 Mexican Open quarterfinals with a commanding 6-4, 6-3 victory over American Alex Michelsen on Wednesday. 

The day prior, he overcame a sluggish start to claim a 7-5, 6-2 victory over American Nishesh Basavareddy, advancing to the second round in Acapulco.

Shapovalov Showed Great Form in Both Sets

The Canadian displayed strong form, capitalizing on four of six break-point opportunities while maintaining consistency on his serve.

His good form could be an indicator of the good training he received at home, as his mother, who is a former professional tennis player, has coached him since the age of five. She is currently running a tennis academy in Vaughan, Canada. 

The 25-year-old Tel Aviv-born, who moved to Toronto when he was nine months old, set the tone early in both sets on Wednesday. 

He quickly built a 5-2 lead in the first and dominated the second, surging ahead 5-1 before closing out the match. 

The ninth seed’s aggressive play was out into the spotlight even more by three aces. However, he also recorded three double faults.

Michelsen Had Serve Troubles

Michelsen, in contrast, struggled with his serve, managing only five double faults and failing to hit an ace. 

The Laguna Hills, California-born 19-tear-old American who turned pro in 2023 was seen struggling to find his rhythm, only managing to convert two of five break-point chances. 

However, Michelsen, who started playing tennis when he was three and began hitting backhands in the garage, was unable to shift momentum in his favor against his more skilled opponent. 

Next up for “Shapo” is a quarterfinal showdown with American Marcos Giron. 

The matchup presents a challenge, as Giron holds a 2-0 career advantage over Shapovalov, including a recent victory at the Adelaide International on January 7. 

Their upcoming battle on Thursday will determine who advances to the semifinals.

Can Shapovalov claim his first solo title, get the latest tennis odds with betting.ca