Who is Denis Shapovalov playing in the second round of the Australian Open 2026?

Denis Shapovalov will face former US Open champion Marin Cilic in the second round.

What was Marin Cilic's first-round result at the Australian Open 2026?

Marin Cilic won his first-round match decisively, taking the first two sets 6-0, 6-0 before winning in a tie-break.

What is the head-to-head record between Shapovalov and Cilic?

Denis Shapovalov leads the head-to-head series against Marin Cilic 3-2.

Home / Sports / Shapovalov vs Cilic: Australian Open Round 2 Showdown

Shapovalov vs Cilic: Australian Open Round 2 Showdown

22 Jan

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Summary

Shapovalov advanced with a solid 6-3, 7-6(3), 6-1 win.
Cilic dominated his opponent, winning 12 games straight initially.
Shapovalov holds a narrow 3-2 head-to-head advantage over Cilic.

Shapovalov vs Cilic: Australian Open Round 2 Showdown

Denis Shapovalov, seeded 21st, began his Australian Open 2026 campaign with a decisive victory over Bu Yunchaokete. The Canadian player won the match in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6(3), 6-1, showcasing strong performance on serve.

Shapovalov's next challenge comes in the form of former US Open champion Marin Cilic. Cilic also made a commanding entrance into the tournament, initially sweeping his first-round opponent, Daniel Altmaier, by winning the first two sets 6-0, 6-0. Although Altmaier put up more of a fight in the third set, Cilic ultimately prevailed in a tie-break.

In their head-to-head history, Shapovalov holds a slight edge with a 3-2 lead over Cilic. Their most recent encounter saw Cilic emerge victorious in straight sets at the Boss Open 2021. Shapovalov's win marked an end to a three-match losing streak, while Cilic's performance in the first round suggests he is in strong form. Cilic has a notable 35-15 record at the Australian Open.