Denis Shapovalov — tennis with roots in the USSR
Denis Shapovalov is a Canadian professional tennis player born in Tel Aviv, Israel, to Russian-Ukrainian parents who emigrated to Canada. A left-handed player known for his flair and shot-making, he reached a career-high ranking of World No. 10 and a Wimbledon semi-final.
Tracing the roots — Russia / Ukraine
Born to Tessa and Viktor Shapovalov who had emigrated from Russia/Ukraine to Canada, Denis grew up in Richmond Hill, Ontario, as part of Canada's large Russian-speaking diaspora. His mother Tessa was his first coach. His Russian roots and Canadian upbringing produced one of tennis's most entertaining playing styles.
Russia / Ukraine. At the time, this region was one of the fifteen republics of the Soviet Union.
A career defined by ambition
"I want to be the best. That's what my parents taught me — you go all the way or not at all."