Denis Shapovalov has withdrawn from this weekend’s Davis Cup 2025 1st round Qualifier tie between Team Canada presented by IGA and Hungary in Montreal due to a back injury. Alberta’s Cleeve Harper has been added to the team and will be participating in his first Davis Cup tie.
“I’m really disappointed to withdraw from the Davis Cup tie this weekend,” said Shapovalov. “I love playing at home and it’s always an honour to play for Team Canada, but I’m still struggling with some back pain after my last match at the Australian Open. I’m going to continue rehabbing in hopes to be ready for my next tournament in Dallas. Good luck to the team this weekend – I’ll definitely be watching and cheering them on!”
“We’re obviously disappointed that Denis can’t join us this week,” said Canadian team captain Frank Dancevic. “He’s an exceptionally talented player who has always taken great pride in representing Canada, as shown by his many appearances over the years. That said, we still have a strong squad that can compete with anyone. We believe in our players and are thrilled to welcome Cleeve [Harper], who adds depth to our team.”
Harper, currently ranked No. 154 in doubles on the ATP Tour, earns his first nomination for Team Canada and will join Gabriel Diallo, Alexis Galarneau, Liam Draxl and, Vasek Pospisil on the roster. This year, the 24-year-old has primarily competed on the ATP Challenger circuit, notably winning the doubles title at the Oeiras Open 3 alongside Draxl last weekend. Over his career, Harper has claimed eight ITF doubles titles, six of them during the 2024 season.
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The action begins on Saturday, February 1 at 1:00 p.m. ET with two singles matches. The tie will conclude on Sunday, February 2, starting with a doubles match at 11:00 a.m.*, followed by two singles matches.**
*The schedule is subject to change. **If the tie is decided following the doubles match, the last singles match may not be contested.
CLICK HERE for everything you need to know about the 2025 Davis Cup Qualifiers 1st Round in Montreal.
Tickets for the Davis Cup Qualifiers 1st Round tie between Canada and Hungary are now on sale. Join us February 1 and 2 at IGA Stadium in Montreal, as the Canadian team begins their quest for the 2025 Davis Cup Final 8. To access tickets at early-bird pricing, click here.
