INDIAN WELLS — Canada's Denis Shapovalov successfully advanced to the third round of the Indian Wells tennis tournament with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory over Australia's Adam Walton on Saturday, March 8, 2025. The Richmond Hill native demonstrated exceptional skills, converting five out of six break point opportunities and winning 67 percent of his first-serve points.
Shapovalov's strong performance saw him thwart Walton's chances, holding the Australian to just two conversions on ten break point opportunities. Walton struggled throughout the match, registering only 55 percent of his first-serve points.
Earlier on the same day, Felix Auger-Aliassime fell short against Jenson Brooksby of the U.S. with a score of 6-4, 6-2. This match marked Auger-Aliassime's entry after receiving a bye to the second round, and he was fresh off reaching the finals at the Dubai Tennis Championships the previous week.
Auger-Aliassime's performance left much to be desired as he only managed two aces against three double faults, failing to convert on either of his two break point opportunities. He was able to win 67 percent of his first-serve points but his overall game struggled, as Brooksby capitalized on his chances, converting three out of six break points and registering 79 percent of his first-serve points.
Becoming part of the narrative, Leylah Fernandez representing Laval, Quebec, was involved in a thrilling women's singles match against Romania's Jaqueline Cristian, which transpired later on Saturday night. After three grueling hours and thirteen minutes of intense play, Fernandez won the first set 7-5, only to falter as she lost the next two sets 7-6 (5), 6-3.
Throughout the match, both competitors struggled with serving consistency, finishing with three aces apiece. Fernandez tallied two double faults along with 24 unforced errors and 21 winners, displaying flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency. Conversely, Cristian exhibited five double faults, 16 unforced errors, and seven winners, showcasing her ability to seize the moment.
This report highlights the ups and downs experienced by Canadian players at the Indian Wells tournament, as Shapovalov moves forward, Auger-Aliassime exits early, and Fernandez fights valiantly but is also sent packing. The tournament continues to attract attention as players vie for victory and rankings. With more matches to follow, fans eagerly await which athletes will emerge victorious as the tournament progresses.