Shapo
Denis Shapovalov has given Canada a 1-0 lead over Australia in the Davis Cup final. The Canadian took down Thanasi Kokkinakis in straight sets 6-2, 6-4 on Sunday in Malaga, Spain.
Félix Auger-Aliassime can clinch Canada’s first Davis Cup as he takes on world no. 24 Alex De Minaur in the second match. Watch live on Sportsnet and SN NOW
Canada jumped out of the blocks when Shapovalov broke Kokkinakis twice to grab an early 4-0 lead.
The Aussie took one break from the Canadian, but Shapovalov powered through, grabbing the opening set 6-2 in only 32 minutes.
Once again, Shapovalov broke Kokkinakis twice in the second set — including a deadly break point bringing the score to 5-2. But the 23-year-old slipped while serving for the match, letting his Australian rival back in the set. Shapovalov gave Kokkinakis the break on a double fault and the Aussie then quickly took the next game cut the deficit to 5-4.
Serving for the match a second time, Shapovalov iced the win to give Canada the 1-0 advantage in the final.
In the second match, Auger-Aliassime will take on De Minaur. If necessary, a decisive doubles match will see Auger-Aliassime and Vasek Pospisil take on Jordan Thompson and Max Purcell.