"So proud": Shapovalov absent from US Open, but lives on as fiance Mirjam Bjorklund qualifies for US Open with stunning run

Denis Shapovalov congratulated his fiancée Mirjam Bjorklund on her first qualification for the main draw of the US Open.

Currently positioned at the 155th spot in the world rankings, Bjorklund competed tirelessly in the US Open qualifying rounds throughout the week.

From her resounding victory in the first round against American Makenna Jones with a score of 6-1, 6-2, to her impressive performance against French player Leolia Jeanjean in the second qualifying round, where she prevailed with a score of 6-2, 6-4.

However, the real highlight came in the final qualifying round, when Bjorklund faced Indian Ankita Raina and secured a commanding straight-sets victory with a score of 6-2, 6-2.

Swedish player Bjorklund secured her place in the main draw of the US Open 2023. A moment of pride and excitement that has been accentuated by the enthusiastic support of her fiancé, Denis Shapovalov, who will be absent from the main draw due to an injury.

Despite being unable to compete in the tournament due to an injury, the world No. 26 was present in the stands, offering unwavering support to his fiancée throughout the week.

The Canadian didn't hesitate to express his enthusiasm and admiration for Bjorklund's achievement through social media, underscoring the significance of this milestone in her career.

"So proud!!! Qualified for her first US Open main draw. Love you Mirjam Bjorklund," the former World No. 10 wrote on his Instagram story.

Bjorklund's victory guaranteed her a spot in the first round of the year's final Grand Slam, marking her debut in the main draw of the tournament in New York.

The US Open 2023 marks Bjorklund's third appearance in the main draw of a Grand Slam tournament. Her debut occurred in 2022 at the French Open, followed by an appearance in the main draw of Wimbledon.