Denis Shapovalov: It's unbelievable to be compared to Rod Laver

Rising Canadian star Denis Shapovalov admits its unbeliavable to be compared to Australian Rod Laver. Shapovalov is currently in Australia as he awaits the beginning of the Australian Open. The Canadian beat American Jack Sock at the Priceline Pharmacy Kooyong Classic on Thursday.

Honestly, it is unbelievable to be compared to Rod a fellow lefty who has done so much in the game of tennis, Shapovalov said in Kooyong, per Fox Sports Australia. He is a great ambassador for the sport and he is such a super nice guy.

It is honestly unbelievable to be compared to him. Australian tennis legend Laver is considered an all-time great and one of the best players to ever play the game. He is a former 11-time Grand Slam champion and world No.

1. On the other side, Shapovalov is one of the most talented and promising players on the Tour right now. If I can do even half what he (Laver) did in his career he was such an unbelievable player. It is really inspiring to hear that, Shapovalov admitted.

Meanwhile, Shapovalov is set to open his second Australian Open campaign. The 19-year-old has been drawn to meet Pablo Andujar in the first round. In his Australian Open debut a year ago, Shapovalov reached the second round — where he was edged out in five sets by Jo Wilfried Tsonga.

Also read: Kooyong: Marin Cilic, Denis Shapovalov clinch wins on last day