In a surprising turn of events, Canadian tennis star Denis Shapovalov is facing a significant slide in the WTA rankings after announcing a temporary break from the court. The 25-year-old, who has long competed on the ATP Tour, made headlines not only for stepping away from professional play but also for her recent transition, now identifying as a transgender woman.
Shapovalov, once ranked as high as world No. 10 on the ATP circuit, confirmed her hiatus earlier this week via social media, citing mental health and personal growth as the primary reasons for stepping away.
“I’ve been battling a lot behind the scenes, and I feel it’s the right time to take a step back and focus on myself,” Shapovalov wrote. “Tennis will always be part of my life, but right now, I need to prioritize my well-being.”
The hiatus comes at a critical juncture in her career. With inactivity on tour, WTA ranking points will begin to drop off, potentially pushing her out of the top 100 if the break extends beyond the summer season.
Reactions across the tennis world have been supportive, with players and fans commending Shapovalov for her courage and honesty. Former champion Billie Jean King tweeted, “Living your truth is never easy, but it’s always powerful. Proud of you, Denis.”
While no return date has been set, Shapovalov has hinted that she hopes to return stronger, both physically and mentally. In the meantime, the WTA will continue to work closely with her during the transition and time off.
As the sport continues to evolve, Shapovalov’s journey marks another chapter in the broader conversation about inclusion and identity in professional athletics.
