Denis Shapovalov won his opener on Monday against wild card Sebastian Korda, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. It's the first time in three years that the Canadian hasn't opened in New York against compatriot Felix Auger-Aliassime.
"I was telling Felix before the tournament that I don't care about the draw, I know they will put us against each other," Shapovalov told press. "I was already prepared for Felix."
Given how quickly the two Canadians have risen up the ranks, it was an impossibility this time around: Shapovalov is seeded No. 12 and Auger-Aliassime No. 15. On Tuesday, Auger-Aliassime won a tight battle with Thiago Monteiro.
"Sebastian was not so much easier," Shapovalov said of Korda. "He's definitely a great up-and-comer. He has a huge game. So it's just a little bit of time for him and he's definitely going to be an amazing player. So it was actually a very tricky first round."
The 21-year-old (just one year Korda's senior) got to rep the new Nike Challenge Court collection inside Louis Armstrong Stadium. The vintage line is celebrating 30 years since Andre Agassi wore his signature bright colored, jean outfit at the 1990 US Open.
