Denis Shapovalov was impressed by the rapid recovery of
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray to return to Wimbledon. The Canadian has
personally experienced the difficulties of recovering from a long knee injury
while he seems to be regaining confidence after an impressive debut against
Nicolas Jarry.
After defeating the Chilean, he was asked in a press
conference about the recovery of former world No. 1s Djokovic and Murray to
return to SW19. Both are preparing to debut on Tuesday at Center Court after
complicated injuries that initially seemed to rule them out.
Shapovalov inspired by Djokovic and Murray’s swift returns
The Canadian did not hide his admiration for former
champions Djokovic and Murray, who underwent recent surgeries and made rapid
recoveries to be present at Wimbledon. Djokovic underwent surgery on his right
knee three weeks ago after withdrawing from the French Open in the
quarterfinals, while Murray suffered back problems and had surgery just 10 days
ago.
However, both 37-year-old players rushed their returns to
the court to play at Wimbledon, and Shapovalov praised their effort:
“Completely crazy!” said the 2021 semi-finalist. “Huge credit to them for doing
what they’re doing. To even try and give it an effort, it’s insane! Especially
on top of what they’ve already achieved,” he said.
“I understand if it’s a young guy who doesn’t really know
and thinks ‘this is my chance, this is my moment’. But these guys have done it
all. So for them to come back and try to play is inspiring for everyone here,”
Shapovalov added.
The 25-year-old tennis player recalled his match against
Murray in 2021 on his way to the semifinals, which he commented is ‘right at
the top’ of his list of memories: “I can remember watching Andy play the match
before and rooting for him because that was my chance to play on Centre Court.
Then, from the moment walking on that court it hit me differently. It was super
special. I got a quick start, then Andy did what he does best. He fought his
way back.”
Shapovalov at 2021 Wimbledon Championship.
“I remember I was up two breaks. He got the first break back
and I’m like, ‘okay, here it comes. He’s coming’, Shapovalov added. “I remember
I played an unbelievable point to save the second break from happening, then
was able to hold on – and play the second set really well as well.
“At which point they take us into the lockers, saying
they’re going to close the roof. I was like, ‘oh boy, here Andy comes’. He was
definitely in my head quite a lot, playing Andy at Wimby! But that almost took
the pressure off me. In the third set I came back even better. It was a special
feeling to be on Centre for the first time. To play a legend like Andy was
truly special.”
Shapovalov’s great debut win
The former world No. 10 faced a tough knee injury after his
exit from Wimbledon in 2023 and missed the entire second half of the season.
The long absence left ‘Shapo’ out of the top-100, and since his return this
year, he has struggled to regain the consistency needed to return to the elite
ranks.
Fortune seems to be changing for Shapovalov, who debuted
with a convincing win over 19th seed Jarry, 6-1, 7-5, 6-4. The All England Club
seems to be the ideal place for him to regain confidence, having been a junior
champion in 2016 and a main draw semifinalist in 2021 at 22 years old. In the
second round, he will face German Daniel Altmaier (No. 80), who defeated local
wild card Arthur Fery in five sets.
Shapovalov out of Olympic Games
Unfortunately for Shapovalov, his long absence from the Tour
in 2023 left him out of the entry list for the Olympics due to his low ranking.
Canada will have Felix Auger-Aliassime and Milos Raonic as representatives in
the men’s singles and doubles draws.
“The Olympics is something I dreamt of playing when I was a
little kid. And obviously still do now. It’s one of the most important
tournaments in the world, if not the most,” the world No. 120 said. “But coming
back from injury I need to think about the body. Making so many transitions –
clay-grass-clay then hardcourt – is not good for the body.
“I’m still needing to work up the rankings. I’ve been given
wildcards opportunities to Atlanta and Washington. I need to take those,” he
added. “But it’s definitely not an easy decision. I feel I missed out on
representing my country in Tokyo and it’s going to be the same thing this
year.”
The Canadian already missed the Olympics in 2021 as he chose
not to participate due to ‘safety reasons’ amid concerns about COVID.
Shapovalov will miss the chance to compete for the gold medal for the second
time but remains hopeful of competing in the next Games when he will be 29
years old: “Los Angeles in 2028, hopefully, will be my time.”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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