Denis Shapovalov claims the playing conditions on the ATP Tour are much different compared to pre-COVID era and that’s a big reason why his rise stopped in the last few years.
The Canadian, who is 25, was once regarded as one of the most promising players in men’s tennis.
And early in his career, he made some notable results as he had only turned 21 when he broke into the top-10 for the first time in his career and he was also a Wimbledon semifinalist in 2021.
But instead of elevating his game to a new level, Shapovalov has probably regressed as he hasn’t had much success on the biggest stage over the last couple of years and he is now ranked at No. 53 in the world – a far cry from where he was tipped to be at this stage of his career.
So far this season, the Canadian is only 2-3 – picked up a first-round exit in Hong Kong, exited Adelaide in the round-of-16, and only made the Australian Open second round.
Shapovalov: Everything has greatly slowed down, the balls have gone much slower
“One big reason is that everything has greatly slowed down in the last two years. Since COVID, the balls have gone much slower since we’ve come back,” the former world No. 10 explained to TSN.
“Unfortunately, they don’t benefit players like me and Félix. Again, it could be an excuse, but that’s how tennis sometimes is.”
According to Shapovalov, to play the game with his style is basically impossible.
“I’ve had to become much more patient and add variety to my game. I can’t just go for the big shots anymore because they’re not so effective, especially if you’re standing far from the court,” the current world No. 53 added.
“Three or four years ago, I could go from defense to offense quickly, with my power alone. You must work the points now, play with angles, and use some slices. Everyone has had to add a lot of variety to their game.”
For a good portion of 2024, Shapovalov was ranked outside the top-100.
But after winning the ATP 250 tournament in Belgrade as a qualifier, he collected some solid points and returned inside the top-100.
Tennis World USA