Shapovalov and Mboko Advance at Australian Open
Denis Shapovalov and Victoria Mboko have both advanced to the second round of the Australian Open, showcasing impressive performances in their respective matches. This year’s tournament continues to highlight the rise of Canadian tennis talent.
Shapovalov’s Strong Performance
Denis Shapovalov, seeded 21st, won his opening match against wild card Bu Yunchaokete from China with scores of 6-3, 7-6 (3), 6-1. The match took place on Monday and lasted two hours and 15 minutes.
- Shapovalov struck 19 aces.
- He converted 3 out of 8 break point opportunities.
- He maintained a robust game with 47 winners compared to Bu’s 11.
Shapovalov is now set to face Marin Cilic from Croatia in the next round. Notably, he is currently the only Canadian left in the men’s singles bracket after Félix Auger-Aliassime, the seventh seed, was forced to retire in his match against Portugal’s Nuno Borges. Other Canadians like Gabriel Diallo and Liam Draxl also faced defeats in the first round.
Mboko Shines in Women’s Singles
In an impressive display, 19-year-old Victoria Mboko secured her spot in the second round by defeating Australian Emerson Jones with scores of 6-4, 6-1. This match took just 72 minutes.
- Mboko won 77% of her first serve points.
- She achieved 59% success on her second serve points.
Mboko will next compete against American player Caty McNally. Her rapid ascent in the tournament reflects the growing strength of Canadian female tennis players.
Both Shapovalov and Mboko’s victories underline the competitive spirit and skill present in Canadian tennis, making them players to watch as the Australian Open progresses.
