Denis Shapovalov has stormed into the title match at the Belgrade Open with a dominant performance, overpowering Jiri Lehecka 6-2, 6-1 in the semifinal. This victory caps off a strong run for the Canadian, who came through the qualifying rounds to secure a spot in the main draw of the Serbian event. The former world No. 10 showcased some of his best tennis throughout the week, particularly in defeating Marton Fucsovics in the first round and continuing his impressive form in subsequent matches. With this victory, Shapovalov has reached his seventh ATP final and his first since October 2022. He will now look to claim his second career ATP title, facing off against young Serbian talent Hamad Medjedovic in Saturday’s championship match.
### Shapovalov Dominates Lehecka from the Start
Against world No. 31 Jiri Lehecka, Shapovalov took immediate control on the indoor court. The 24-year-old Canadian was practically untouchable on serve, dropping just one point when landing his first delivery and navigating the match without facing a single break point. In contrast, Lehecka struggled significantly, especially with his second serve, managing to win less than half of his service points. This disparity led to constant pressure on the Czech player, who found himself defending against 11 break points throughout the encounter. Shapovalov converted four of those opportunities—two in each set—to put himself in a commanding position.
From the outset, Shapovalov’s aggressive play paid dividends. In the second game of the first set, he created three break points and capitalized on the third when Lehecka sent a backhand wide. With an early break in hand, Shapovalov consolidated his advantage, firing aces and keeping points short with precise shot-making. He held to love in the third game and continued to pile on the pressure. Lehecka’s service games, meanwhile, became an uphill battle. The Czech saved four break points in the sixth game, but his resistance was short-lived. Shapovalov remained composed, holding comfortably for a 5-2 lead before breaking again to close out the set 6-2, ending with a blistering forehand crosscourt winner.
### Carrying Momentum into the Second Set
Shapovalov’s momentum carried into the second set as he continued to dictate play. He secured an early break in the second game, capitalizing on a backhand slice error from Lehecka. The signs of frustration were evident from the Czech, whose baseline game faltered under Shapovalov’s relentless pressure. Lehecka’s struggles were further compounded when he was broken again at love in the fourth game, putting Shapovalov up 4-0. At this point, it was clear that the Canadian was in complete control.
Maintaining his composure, Shapovalov cruised through his service games, never giving Lehecka a glimmer of hope for a comeback. Serving for the match at 5-1, Shapovalov closed things out in style, firing a service winner to earn three match points. He wasted no time, clinching victory with a forehand winner on the first match point to secure his place in the final. The match was wrapped up in just over an hour, a testament to Shapovalov’s efficiency and dominance.
### A Chance for Redemption and Revival
For Shapovalov, this run in Belgrade represents more than just a chance at another ATP title; it is an opportunity to reassert himself as a top player on the tour. Once ranked as high as No. 10 in the world, the Canadian has endured a challenging stretch marked by inconsistency and injuries. His performance this week, however, has been a reminder of the talent and firepower he possesses. From powerful serves to blistering groundstrokes, Shapovalov has demonstrated the level of play that made him a rising star.
His upcoming opponent, Hamad Medjedovic, is a promising young Serbian player who has garnered local support throughout the tournament. While Medjedovic may lack Shapovalov’s experience at this level, his game has shown significant promise, and he will be eager to claim his first ATP title on home soil. The final promises to be an intriguing clash of styles, with Shapovalov’s aggressive baseline play and shot-making flair facing off against Medjedovic’s determination and skill.
### Looking Ahead
Victory in Belgrade would mark a significant milestone for Shapovalov as he seeks to build momentum heading into the next phase of the season. Consistency has often been the Canadian’s Achilles’ heel, but his run this week suggests he may be finding a better balance between aggression and control on the court. If he can maintain this level of play, Shapovalov has the potential to return to the upper echelons of the ATP rankings and compete with the best players in the world.
As he prepares for the title match, Shapovalov will be focused on executing the same aggressive, confident game that brought him this far. For his fans, this resurgence is a welcome sight, and a victory on Saturday could be the start of a new chapter in the Canadian’s career. Regardless of the outcome, Shapovalov’s journey back to an ATP final is an encouraging sign that he remains a formidable force in men’s tennis.