Denis Shapovalov: new coach same style

The Canadian tennis star Denis Shapovalov is gearing up for the Australian Open and is determined to stick to his aggressive shotmaking style, despite advice from others to play safer. Shapovalov, currently ranked No. 58 in the world, believes that his aggressive play is what sets him apart from other players on the tour.

“I put a lot of pressure on opponents. I like to take time away from them and really try to make them feel they don’t have a lot of room to breathe. That’s the kind of player I am,” Shapovalov said.

Shapovalov is set to face Roberto Bautista Agut in his first match at the Australian Open. The Canadian has defeated Bautista Agut twice on hard courts in the past.

Joining Shapovalov at the Australian Open are several other Canadian players, including Felix Auger-Aliassime, Gabriel Diallo, Rebecca Marino, Leylah Fernandez, and Gabriela Dabrowski. The Canadian contingent is looking to make their mark on the tournament.

Shapovalov recently started working with a new coach, Janko Tipsarevic, a former player who reached a career-high ranking of No. 8. Tipsarevic is focused on helping Shapovalov improve while maintaining his aggressive playing style.

After a challenging 2023 season due to injuries, Shapovalov bounced back in 2024 and ended the year on a high note by winning a title in Belgrade. Despite a tough start to the 2025 season in Hong Kong, where he fell ill with a virus, Shapovalov is determined to continue improving and climbing up the rankings.

As he looks to the future, Shapovalov is focused on consistency and staying true to his style of play, no matter what critics may say. He believes that playing his brand of tennis is what makes him successful on the court.

The Canadian tennis star’s journey at the Australian Open and beyond will be one to watch as he aims to make his mark on the tennis world.