Denis Shapovalov’s Fighting Spirit and Puppy Love Fuel His Dallas Open Run
Denis Shapovalov has been making waves at the Dallas Open, and it’s not just his tennis that’s keeping him in top form. A new addition to his family—a puppy named Yatzy—along with quality time with his fiancée, Mirjam Bjorklund, has helped him find balance off the court. That balance, combined with a fighting mindset, has propelled him to the final of the ATP 500 event, where he’s set to face Casper Ruud in what promises to be an intense showdown.
Shapovalov’s journey in Dallas has been nothing short of impressive. After a slow start to the season and some physical setbacks, including a back issue that kept him out of Canada’s Davis Cup campaign, he came into the tournament with modest expectations. However, match after match, he’s been proving that his game is coming together at the right time. He took down two of the top American players—fourth-ranked Taylor Fritz and defending champion Tommy Paul—showcasing not just his shot-making abilities but also his resilience under pressure.
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His mindset has played a huge role in his success. Shapovalov admitted that coming into Dallas without major expectations actually helped him relax and play more freely. He’s embraced a “let’s see what happens” attitude, allowing him to find his rhythm in the crucial moments. He even joked about how his practice sessions hadn’t been great leading up to the tournament, but once he stepped onto the match court, something clicked. That ability to fight through challenges, stay loose, and trust his game has made all the difference.
And let’s not forget the importance of having the right off-court support. With Mirjam and Yatzy by his side, Shapovalov has been able to disconnect from the pressures of competition and enjoy his time in Texas. The hotel being close to the venue has made things easier, and he’s genuinely been enjoying the experience. Tennis is often about small details, and finding that balance between competition and relaxation can be a game-changer.
Now, standing on the verge of his first-ever ATP 500 title, Shapovalov knows what’s at stake. He ended a five-year title drought last season by winning in Belgrade, and he’s feeling some of that same energy here in Dallas. But this time, the level of competition is even higher. Facing Ruud, who has a 2-0 head-to-head advantage over him (both matches on clay), won’t be easy, but on an indoor hard court, the conditions could favor Shapovalov’s aggressive game.
If he pulls off the win, it’ll be a significant moment in his career—a validation of all the hard work he’s been putting in. And while he might not be a big football fan (he even joked about only watching the Super Bowl halftime show), a victory at the home of the Dallas Cowboys might just make him a new supporter. For now, though, his focus is on one thing: leaving it all on the court and seeing if this is his moment to shine.
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