How Shapovalov Overcomes Frustration to Stay Focused on What Truly Matters

| by Kadir Macar

Denis Shapovalov is trying to keep the big picture in mind as she tries to balance his tennis career with his life.

The Canadian hasn't been living up to his potential lately after a furious start to his career but he keeps reminding himself that there are more important things in life. He's focused on becoming the best tennis player and person he can be while also focusing on keeping in mind that life is meant to be lived.

I think at the end of the day, first of all if things are not going well, you can have it way worse. I’m fortunate enough to be in the position that I am and trying to be the best possible. But it’s just a sport. It’s just a game. Obviously I want to be better and sometimes I’m frustrated on the court. But I think I do a good job of just not carrying it over because we’re very lucky. I’m living a good life.

Part of that bigger picture is his newfound advocacy for equality in tennis. Like many he wasn't aware of it until his girlfriend, a fellow professional tennis player explained it in detail. He's since begun vocally advocating for change because his mother is a former player and it's something that's important to him. Being a good person is very important to him.

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I think in general being a person, it’s different. You’re an athlete but at the end of the day you’re a person, so I always try to treat people like I’d want to be treated. I think it’s from my upbringing as well.

His girlfriend is a major part of his life and despite losing five of the previous seven matches, Shapovalov is content overall. He got to spend more time with Bjorklund which is beneficial for both of them as they spend so much time away from each other due to the sport they play.

I think a big part of that is obviously Mirjam [Bjorklund], my girlfriend. First of all we’ve just been able to spend a lot more time together and do fun stuff. I feel like wherever we are, we always think of fun things to do, things to see and restaurants and stuff like that to go to. I just feel like life is super fun.

Due to previous success in Miami Shapovalov hopes to find a spark here. It's going to be tough against Fritz but he's beaten him six times so far.

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