MATCH REPORT | Davis Cup Finals 2024: Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov lead Canada to opening win against Argentina

Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime won Canada’s first point at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in front of a half-empty arena in Manchester, England, defeating Argentina in a thrilling doubles match.

The encounter will be played on hard courts and indoors, which heavily favors Canada compared to Argentina, who mainly play on clay. Shapovalov took on Francisco Cerundolo in the first match of the day, prevailing 7-5, 6-3. It was an error-ridden party from both sides, but Shapovalov’s relative progress on this surface proved to be a success. Shapovalov hit fewer than 96 unforced errors in 21 games as he defeated Cerundolo, who is normally a clay court specialist. In the second match, Auger-Aliassime prevailed against Sebastian Baez 6-3, 6-3. The first set was stronger than Shapovalov’s win, as he did not have to fend off a single break point and took advantage of his break chances to win the first set 6-3. He was in control most of the time and was just one set away from victory.

He reduced his unforced errors in the second set and performed even better, taking a 4-0 lead and although Baez fought back, it was an easy 6-3 win for Canada. Great Britain and Finland will meet in Manchester next before facing the other group members. The winner will secure their place in the knockout rounds in Malaga by passing the first test. However, the number of spectators in the AO Arena was very low, with tickets for some matches, including Great Britain’s match against Argentina on Friday, being offered for £10. In other countries too, it is difficult to fill the stands.

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