At just 25 years old, Denis Shapovalov has already etched his name among the Tennis elite, reaching the Top 10 of the ATP PIF rankings, reaching the semi-finals of a major tournament, winning two titles on the ATP circuit and triumphing against tennis heavyweights such as Rafael Nadal and Jannik Sinner. However, the Canadian, currently ranked number 58, is feeling restless and hungry for more.
After suffering a serious knee injury less than two years ago that stunted his progress, Shapovalov isn’t just aiming for a return to the Top 10; he is determined to reach even greater heights.
“That’s the only thing that kept me in the game, to be honest – striving to get back to that high level where I once was, or even beyond,” Shapovalov said while participating in the ‘Adelaide International this week. “When I was sidelined due to my injury, I made it clear to my team and my family that I was not interested in returning as an average player. I tasted success at the pinnacle of the sport and achieved some remarkable milestones in my short career.
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“So, it’s about pushing those limits and aiming higher, otherwise it’s time to hang up the racket.” Settling for mediocrity is not my style. It’s just not attractive. »
A significant step that Shapovalov has taken in his comeback quest is recruiting former world number 8 Janko Tipsarevic to his coaching staff. The Serbian, four-time champion on the ATP circuit, participated in the Nitto ATP Finals in 2011 and 2012.
Shapovalov reflected on his team’s dynamics, saying that halfway through last season they made a crucial decision.
“I felt, and the team felt, that we needed to bring in someone else. We had been looking for a while for the right person – someone who could fit in perfectly with the team and help me get back to the next level,” Shapovalov explained. “Having someone like Janko is invaluable; he understands what I’m going through, he knows the experiences and emotions, and I can discuss things that others may not fully grasp.
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“It is difficult for someone to understand the pressure of playing a Grand Slam semi-final or a significant match, unless they have experienced that journey themselves. »
Looking back on his younger years, Shapovalov fondly remembers watching Tipsarevic play. He vividly remembers the thrilling 2012 ATP Masters 1000 semi-final between Tipsarevic and Novak Djokovic.
-“I was a huge fan of his style of play,” Shapovalov shared. “His game was captivating to watch, he had a unique elegance, and he gave his all in matches. He was an exhilarating player to watch live. »
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Tipsarevic’s role focuses on perfecting the details of Shapovalov’s game – the elements that might escape a casual observer.
“I may feel like something is wrong with my game, even if it looks okay on the outside. Janko helps us dissect these areas together. Furthermore, experience cannot be taught; it must be lived,” remarked Shapovalov. “A player of his caliber has it. He has had his ups and downs throughout a long career, so he understands what I go through during matches, which boosts my confidence. When I glance at my coach, I know he understands my feelings at that moment, and he can really be supportive. »
Interestingly, Tipsarevic’s last event as a player was at the Stockholm Open in 2019, where Shapovalov won his first ATP Tour title, defeating Filip Krajinovic, who Tipsarevic had just started coaching.
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“I didn’t know him very well at first, but we started talking late last year and teamed up for Basel to gauge our compatibility,” Shapovalov said. “It seemed like we were in sync almost instantly. We share similar beliefs and perspectives both on and off the court, marking the start of what I hope will be a successful partnership. »
This collaboration fits perfectly with Shapovalov’s ambitions to regain his status among the tennis elite. Having been there before, he is keen to resurrect that success.
“Experiencing these meaningful matches brings a sense of accomplishment and relief. Yet, it’s also something I owe to myself. Playing at the highest level has been a lifelong dream since my childhood, to compete in these big battles and decisive moments,” expressed Shapovalov. “The path to becoming a professional tennis player is a demanding journey filled with sacrifice. So, going through all that effort just to settle for mediocrity? It’s not worth it. Instead, I am fully committed to giving whatever it takes to get back to the top, and I will pursue it with determination. »
