Shapovalov too strong for Cilic in opening win

Canadian Denis Shapovalov was too strong in his comeback match in New York over Marin Cilic, winning the first round tie easily 6-3 6-3.

Shapovalov was dominant on serve, hitting nine aces and was equally strong on second serve, winning 60 per cent.

Cilic struggled to find a rhythm, allowing Shapovalov advantage from the baseline.

“I don’t think I could have played much better,” the young Canadian said.

“It was a really tough draw to play Marin [in the] first round. He’s such an amazing player, and he’s proven that time and time again.”

“It was definitely not easy for both of us out there, so I’m really happy to get a win against him and start back really strong.”

Shapovalov will next play German Jan-Lennard Struff, who beat Alex de Minaur 6-2, 6-4.

Peter Rowe

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