Stefanos Tsitsipas and Denis Shapovalov are set to clash in the first round of the BNP Paribas Open, a match that evokes memories of the late 2010s when both players were considered the next generation of tennis stars.
A Throwback to the Next Gen
Tsitsipas and Shapovalov faced each other four times between 2018 and 2020. Back then, Tsitsipas, was just out of his teens and already in the Top 5. Shapovalov was even younger and trending toward the Top 10.
Both players showcased a throwback one-handed backhand and a knack for dynamic, attacking tennis. Tsitsipas made his mark with an upset victory over Roger Federer in Australia, while Shapovalov stunned Rafael Nadal in Montreal. Their early encounters carried significant implications for the ATP’s future.
Shapovalov’s Edge on Hard Courts
Two of their early matches were closely contested, with Shapovalov winning 7-6 in the third in Miami in 2019, and 7-6, 7-6 at the ATP Cup in 2020. Shapovalov holds a 4-2 lead in their head-to-head record. Notably, Shapo is 4-0 on hard courts, and won their most recent encounter a year ago in Miami, 6-2, 6-4.
Rankings and Recent Form
The upcoming match carries less hype than their earlier encounters. Shapovalov is ranked 39th, while Tsitsipas is 43rd. Neither player is seeded, leading to their Day 1 match-up. Tsitsipas has a 9-5 record this season, while Shapo is 4-4, though he did reach the semi-finals in Dallas.
The One-Handed Backhand Factor
Both Tsitsipas and Shapovalov may have paid a price for using that throwback one-hander. Their opponents often target that shot, particularly with their serves.
Shapovalov’s Streaky Form and Potential Strategy
Shapovalov is known for his streaky form. However, his winning record against Tsitsipas may suggest he can use his serve and forehand to direct more rallies towards the Greek’s backhand.
Other Matches to Watch
Brooksby and Popyrin also played in the UAE last week, but presumably they were able to evade the flight ban and make it out over the weekend.
Their first head-to-head encounter should make for an entertaining show in the intimate confines of Stadium 4 on Tuesday afternoon. The American and the Australian are close in the rankings—41 for Brooksby, 44 for Popyrin. And while neither has put together a string of wins yet in 2026, each brings a lot of big-swinging, highly-vocal competitive aggression to the court. Neither, it seems likely, will avoid fist-pumping in the other’s face.
Popyrin has the superior shots. He has a bigger and heavier-spinning serve, and his forehand will be the most lethal weapon on the court. Brooksby is the better point-constructor and the more stubborn competitor, and he’ll do what he can with his variety of chops and sidespin to disrupt the 6’5 Popyrin by making him stretch and bend and get low.
Brooksby is a California native who has reached the round of 16 at Indian Wells twice. He may be the second-best ball-striker on court, but he should still be in his ele
Regardless of their current rankings, their athletic shot-making promises an engaging match. Shapovalov is predicted to win.