Shapovalov falls out of Japan Open in three-set semifinal loss to Fritz
TOKYO (AP) — Denis Shapovalov’s run at the Japan Open came to a close Saturday after a 3-6, 7-6 (5), 3-6 semifinal loss at the hands of Taylor Fritz.
Fritz, who spent a week in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19 in Seoul last week, fought back in the decisive set after trailing 3-1 to earn the victory.
Shapovalov of Richmond Hill, Ont., fired eight aces to Fritz’s six but only broke on two out of seven opportunities. The American was 4-of-6 on break point chances.
In the other semifinal, Frances Tiafoe finally dropped a set in the tournament before beating Kwon Soon-woo of South Korea 6-2, 0-6, 6-4 to reach his second final of the season.