Canada’s Shapovalov beats Norway’s Ruud in Dallas Open final for 3rd ATP title of career

Denis Shapovalov Secures Victory at Dallas Open

Denis Shapovalov, the talented left-hander from Richmond Hill, Ont., clinched his third career title and first ATP 500-level crown at the Dallas Open on Sunday. His confidence was riding high after defeating some of the tournament’s top contenders earlier in the week, and he showcased some of his best tennis in the final against second-seeded Casper Ruud of Norway.

In a thrilling match, Shapovalov emerged victorious with a 7-6 (5), 6-3 win over Ruud. The Canadian displayed exceptional skill on the court, serving up 13 aces and winning 72 percent of his first-serve points. He saved a crucial break point and sealed the victory in one hour and 40 minutes.

Throughout the tournament, Shapovalov took down the top three seeds, including world No. 4 Taylor Fritz and world No. 9 Tommy Paul. In the final against Ruud, he utilized his powerful groundstrokes and strategic play to outmaneuver his opponent.

Shapovalov’s aggressive approach paid off, particularly in the tiebreaker where he made key shots to secure the first set. With a commanding lead in the second set, he closed out the match with an overhead smash on match point, claiming the biggest title of his career.

Following his win, Shapovalov is set to rise to No. 32 in the world rankings, marking his highest position since September 2023. His impressive performance at the Dallas Open makes him the first player in six years to defeat three top-10 players in a single ATP 250 or 500 event.

Reflecting on his victory, Shapovalov emphasized the importance of playing aggressively to excel on the court. Despite battling injuries and setbacks in recent seasons, he has demonstrated resilience and determination in his pursuit of success.

With all three of his ATP Tour titles coming on indoor hard courts, Shapovalov’s win against Ruud signifies a significant milestone in his career. The victory also marks his first win against Ruud in three head-to-head matchups, highlighting his growth and development as a top-tier player.

As Shapovalov celebrates his triumph at the Dallas Open, fans can expect to see more remarkable performances from the rising Canadian star in the future. His unwavering dedication to his craft and fearless playing style are sure to continue making waves in the world of professional tennis.