Denis Shapovalov prevailed against Ugo Humbert in a clash of powerful left-handers. The Canadian defeated the 2021 Halle winner 6:4, 4:6, 7:6(4) in the first round. Shapovalov remained the player with the stronger nerves in a match that was exciting if not always high-class. In the second round, the 2021 Wimbledon semi-finalist will now face Flavio Cobolli, who came out on top against Joao Fonseca.
In the early stages, both players endeavoured to seize control of the match quickly. While Shapovalov was able to score a number of impressive points, Humbert made many simple mistakes in the early games - including on his serve. Humbert gave away the first break of the match with two double faults. In contrast to his opponent, Shapovalov was able to rely on his good first serve in dicey situations and confidently took the advantage to win the set 6:4.
As smooth as the former world number ten had marched through the first set, Shapovalov's service games in the second round were just as nerve-wracking. Although he managed to break straight away to make it 1:0, he had to surrender his hard-earned lead just moments later. Humbert kept cheering himself on and pushed for his own lead for the first time. The Frenchman got better and better at going on the offensive himself and winning points. He only struggled to capitalise on his chances for a long time: six break points went by before Humbert was able to capitalise on the many opportunities and equalise the match.
In the deciding set, the two players gave it their all. Humbert gained a slight visual advantage, but Shapovalov also found his rhythm again. In the end, a tie-break was needed to separate the two players. Here, too, it was very close. However, Shapovalov landed the decisive blow with the mini-break to make it 5:4 and converted just moments later to secure a place in the round of 16.
