Monitoring desk
ISLAMABAD/MELBOURNE: Teenager Shang Juncheng created history on Monday by becoming the first Chinese to win the Australian Open main draw singles match, a feat he called “huge” for his country.
The 17-year-old, the youngest player in the tennis men’s draw, fought past Germany’s Oscar Otte 6-2, 6-4, 6-7 (2/7), 7-5 in almost three hours to progress.
Chinese player make history at Australian Open
According to the AFP, after saving two break points in an opening set, he has not to face another as he sealed the win on third match point at Melbourne.
His reward was a tough second-round encounter with either American 16th seed Frances Tiafoe or another German, Daniel Altmaier.
Shang said that “I think it’s huge for Chinese players in tennis. You know, we have outstanding players from the women’s side but not big names in the men’s,” who also goes by the name “Jerry”.
Shang also said I think we are fortunate that I’m part of it, or I’m very lucky that I’m part of this tennis team. We can do something big achievement in the future.
In addition to the importance of the result for China, Shang achieved many personal milestones aside from notching his first win; he also earned his first tour-level win in four tries.
He said that I think, overall, this whole week is different for me, playing my first Slam. Every match, I was pretty nervous getting on the tennis court.
