Shapovalov Seeks Stockholm Title Against First-Time Finalist Paul

On a rare all-North American semifinal day in Stockholm, Denis Shapovalov and Tommy Paul emerged victorious to reach the ATP regular season title match of the year.

Shapovalov, the No. 3 seed and 2019, knocked out good friend and countryman Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-4, 7-5 to reach his fourth career ATP final, and second in Stockholm after winning in 2019.

Auger-Aliassime had won both meetings this year, but the lefty turned the tables, coming from 3-1 down in the second to win it.

“I am very happy to have played exceptional tennis today,” said Shapovalov. “Felix is an incredible player, so I knew I had to come out and play big. We know each other well. It definitely means a lot to reach the final.”

Paul also beat a countryman in Frances Tiafoe scoring a 5-7, 7-6(5), 6-4 win to reach his first career ATP final.

Paul, who upset Andy Murray in the quarters, was thrilled with his first win over Tiafoe who served for the match in the second set.

“I haven’t got a win over Frances since juniors, so that was a big win for me,” said Paul. “That was the best level I’ve played all year long. He was playing amazing tennis for the first two sets, and I played my highest level in the third set.

“It wasn’t fun to be broken at 5-5 in the second set, again, but I knew if I stayed tough he may give me a couple of looks. I tried to have fun, and I ended up playing my best tennis. The more matches I’ve played, the more comfortable I’ve played in pressure situations. I’ve enjoyed playing in front of the big crowds.”

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