China's 🎾 rising star Shang Juncheng, at just 19 years old, continues to make waves! 🌊 On Saturday, he battled it out against Russia's Roman Safiullin in their first-ever meeting, emerging victorious with a score of 5-7, 6-3, 6-3 to secure his spot in the ATP Chengdu Open quarterfinals.
Entering the tournament in the vibrant city of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, Shang was already on a high, sitting at a career-best World No. 65. The first set was a nail-biter, with both players showcasing top-notch skills. Safiullin, the eighth seed, managed to clinch the set 7-5 after a well-fought rally. But Shang wasn't about to back down! 💪
Channeling his inner champion, Shang roared back in the second set, taking it 6-3 and leveling the match. The crowd was on the edge of their seats! 🎉
The final set saw Shang, the talented lefty 🎯, dominate with 24 winners throughout the match. He closed out the contest with another 6-3 set, marking his fourth Tour-level quarterfinal this season. Talk about an epic comeback! 🔥
Up next, Shang will face Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik for a coveted spot in the semifinals. Will he continue his incredible run? Stay tuned! 🚀
Reference(s):
Shang joins Bublik, Musetti, Mannarino, reaching Chengdu Open last 8
cgtn.com
