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MIAMI GARDENS

Canada will be well represented in the semi-finals at the Miami Open!

In fact, Denis Shapovalov managed to overcome a one set deficit in his quarter-final match on Thursday against Frances Tiafoe of the United States by a score of 6-7(5), 6-4, 6-2. He joins his compatriot Félix Auger-Aliassime in the semis.

This is the first time since the 2013 edition of the Rogers Cup presented by National Bank in Montreal that two Canadians are into the semi-finals of an ATP Masters 1000 event.

Shapovalov and Tiafoe, no. 34, were facing off for the third time in their professional careers, splitting their two precious matches. Considered two of the most dominant Next Gen players on tour, it was a promising match-up that did not disappoint.

The opener was tightly disputed and required a tiebreak to decide the set. It was Tiafoe who got the upper hand, despite the incredible shots fired by the Canadian. Although the competition was fierce, there was also a sense of comradery as both competitors are also good friends.

In the second set, Shapovalov cleaned up his game and committed less errors. The Canadian jumped out to a quick 5-1 lead, but let his opponent back into the set, as Tiafoe won three consecutive games. He regained composure just in time to shut the door on his rival and walk away with the set.

 

The young Canadian continued on his momentum, getting the early break and thus putting the pressure on the shoulders of the young American. The latter did not seem to intimidate Shapovalov though the match was marked with highlight-worthy rallies.

With his win, Shapovalov reaches the third Masters 1000 semi-final of his young career and will have to measure up against none other than Roger Federer. The match is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. on Friday. Here’s hoping that the rain doesn’t play spoiler again.

For his part, Auger-Aliassime will play his semi-final match against John Isner at 1 p.m.

(Feature photo: Mauricio Paiz)

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