Shapovalov falls in five-set thriller against Shelton at Wimbledon

LONDON — Canadian Denis Shapovalov dropped a five-round battle 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 to American Ben Shelton in third-round men's singles action at Wimbledon on Saturday.

The match was scheduled for Friday but was suspended due to rain with Shelton leading the opening set 3-2.

Shapovalov of Richmond Hill, Ont., had six aces but struggled with 13 double faults. He only broke once on four opportunities and had 37 winners to 46 unforced errors.

The 14th-seeded Shelton had seven aces to four double faults and broke on five of his 16 chances. He also had 38 winners and 38 unforced errors.

“I’m happy with what I’ve done but I’m definitely not satisfied," Shelton said after the match. "The pinnacle is playing the world No.1 at Wimbledon. I’m excited so let’s get at it.”

Neither player had previously lost a five-setter at Wimbledon.

In women's doubles action, Leylah Fernandez of Laval, Que., and Japan's Ena Shibahara defeated Estonia's Ingrid Neel and Norway's Ulrikke Eikeri 2-6, 7-5, 6-2 in second-round play.

Their match continued Saturday with Neel and Eikeri having already won the first set 6-2 before the match was also suspended due to rain on Friday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 6, 2024.