"I felt like I was outplaying Novak in parts of the match" - Shapovalov on Wimbledon loss to Djokovic

In a highly anticipated semifinal match between a member of the Big Three and the Next Gen, it was the old guard who emerged victorious as Novak Djokovic defeated Denis Shapovalov to secure his spot in his seventh Wimbledon final.

The Serbian survived an impressive onslaught from the Canadian, prevailing 7-6(3) 7-5 7-5 after nearly three hours to resume his quest for a record-tying 20th Grand Slam title. Although Djokovic displayed his usual grit and ball-striking ability, it was Shapovalov who let numerous opportunities slip by as he failed to convert on 10 of 11 break point opportunities.

“I think what hurt so much this time was just that I felt like the game is there and it's possible to go and play for the trophy,” Shapovalov said after the match. “It's a feeling I've never had before, so that's why it just hurt so much. I felt like I was outplaying Novak in parts of the match. If you're outplaying Novak, you can beat anyone.

“It just hurt a lot… It's been a lot of pressure, a lot of mental fatigue. Like, it all kind of spilled out on the court before I could control myself.”

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The 22-year old was having a career-best grass-court season, during which he made his first ATP semifinal at Queens before reaching the his maiden Grand Slam semifinals at Wimbledon.

“It's almost good to have a little bit of a taste, because it just makes me want it that much more going into the next Slams and into the future,” he added. “Now I know exactly what I'm capable of and where my game can be at. Also the things that I can improve, too, to beat Novak next time or go one step further.”

Although Shapovalov appeared devastated after his loss, there was a silver lining as he revealed World No.1 Djokovic came up to him in the locker room after the match to offer words of encouragement.

“He just told me he knows how difficult it is for me right now,” Shapovalov said. “He told me that everything will come. For me, it's big coming from someone like him. He doesn't have to do this. It just shows the type of person he is. It's just really nice for someone like me to hear from him.

“I have tremendous respect for him. He's definitely for sure one of the greatest players of all time. It's awesome to hear those words from him.”