Denis Shapovalov drops four-set opener at Next Gen Finals

Denis Shapovalov of Canada. (Luca Bruno/AP)

MILAN — Canada’s Denis Shapovalov dropped a 1-4, 4-3 (5), 4-3 (4), 4-1 decision to South Korea’s Hyeon Chung in his opening match Tuesday at the inaugural Next Gen ATP Finals.

Shapovalov, 18, is the youngest player in a field that includes eight of the best 21-and-under players on the ATP Tour.

The tournament continues through Saturday at the Fiera Milano stadium.

Shapovalov, from Richmond Hill, Ont., reached a career-high ranking of No. 49 last month. He currently holds the No. 51 position.

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