Denis Shapovalov vs. Rafael Nadal: Preview and betting tips

A very interesting and exciting battle awaits us in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open. Denis Shapovalov will challenge Rafael Nadal, how will the match turn out?

This duel can be viewed in different ways – Canadian with Spaniard, 14th ranked tennis player with the fifth, talent with legend or also student with teacher.

The 22-year-old grew up watching and learning from Rafa, but now he will be looking to beat him. The two tennis players have much in common – a left hand, tremendous fight, neither ever giving up.

Nadal, however, has much more experience and is perfect mentally. Shapovalov admitted a few days ago that this is the side he is working on, as he would like to have it like his Spanish idol.

It is the mental side that is very important in tennis. Last year in Rome on clay, for example, Shapovalov had two match points against Nadal, but he couldn’t handle it in his head, collapsed and lost.

The mutual record of both players is 3: 2 for Nadal. The last time the two tennis players met was in December at an exhibition in Abu Dhabi, where Shapovalov won. “El toro” won twice in Rome and once in Davis Cup. The Canadian tennis player dominated their first duel in 2017 in Montreal.

Shapovalov is a big hitter, playing on the extreme edge of risk. He played very aggressive against Zverev, with great luck almost all his shots were falling into the court and it was a big 3: 0 win.

Nadal lost only one set in the tournament, which was taken from him by Khachanov. Considering that both are tremendous fighters, a great battle can be expected.