Denis Shapovalov just pulled off one of the most impressive runs in recent ATP history.
The 25-year-old Canadian, who entered the Dallas Open ranked No. 54, stormed through a murderer’s row of top-10 opponents to claim his first-ever ATP 500 title—a feat not seen in six years.
On Sunday, Shapovalov capped off his dream week by defeating world No. 5 Casper Ruud, 7-6(5), 6-3, in the Dallas Open final—but it wasn’t just the trophy that made headlines.
With this win, Shapovalov became the first player since Nick Kyrgios in 2019 to beat three top-10 players en route to an ATP 500 title.
An Elite Club: Shapovalov Joins Kyrgios in Rare ATP 500 Achievement
Who did Shapovalov beat?
Final: Defeated No. 5 Casper Ruud Semifinal: Defeated No. 4 Taylor Fritz Quarterfinal: Defeated No. 9 Tommy PaulThe last player to achieve such a demanding path to an ATP 500 title? Nick Kyrgios in 2019, when he defeated Rafael Nadal, Alexander Zverev, and John Isner in Acapulco.
Even Kyrgios himself took notice, responding to the news with a shoutout to Shapovalov:
“Well done bro! DOPE STAT.”
For a player who wasn’t even sure he’d play tennis again after a brutal knee injury last season, this comeback is nothing short of spectacular.
From Uncertainty to Glory—Shapovalov’s Road Back
This victory isn’t just about winning a trophy—it’s about resilience.
Shapovalov missed the entire second half of 2024 after suffering a knee injury at Wimbledon. At one point, he wasn’t sure if he’d ever return to competition. Now, he’s back—and playing better than ever.
“There’s a lot to be happy about. Of course, it’s the biggest title of my career,” Shapovalov said.
“I had a good chance against [Daniil] Medvedev a couple years ago [in Vienna, 2022], but he played a terrific match after losing the first. I’m really happy to stay strong this time and get the win.”
Shapovalov had already won two ATP 250 titles (2019 Stockholm and 2024 Belgrade), but this ATP 500 breakthrough proves he belongs among the game’s elite.
The Mindset That Led to His Best Week Yet
For Shapovalov, this run wasn’t just about tennis skills—it was about mentality.
He admitted that he wasn’t putting high expectations on himself, which actually allowed him to play his best tennis.
“I knew I have the game to beat them, but I didn’t have the expectations—if I lost, it would’ve been okay. I was able to play freely and go for it.”
That freedom and confidence fueled his best-ever ATP tournament performance—and with this title, his ranking will skyrocket.
What’s Next for Shapovalov? Can He Build on This Momentum?
Now that Shapovalov has proven he can take down the ATP’s biggest names, the next question is:
Can he sustain this level and make a deep Grand Slam run?
With his aggressive baseline play and improved mental strength, the sky is the limit if he stays healthy.
One thing is for sure—the rest of the ATP Tour just got put on notice.
Shapovalov is back, and he’s playing like a champion.
Denis Shapovalov Stuns the Tennis World—Becomes First Since Kyrgios to Defeat Three Top-10 Players in ATP 500 Title Run Top World News Today.
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