🎾 Defending champion and home hero Shang Juncheng kicked off his title defense at the ATP Chengdu Open in the Chinese mainland’s Sichuan capital with a thrilling 6-1, 5-7, 6-4 victory over Belgium’s Zizou Bergs. It’s his first match win since returning from foot surgery in March!
Shang, just 20 years old, was sidelined from January to late July while recovering from a foot operation. Back on court for only two months, he dug deep to outlast world No. 46 Bergs in a first-ever Tour showdown between the duo.
According to Infosys ATP Stats, the left-hander saved six of seven break points, showcasing nerves of steel. Up a break in the decider, Shang even rallied from 0-40 to hold serve at 5-3, before serving out the match to love.
Next up for the fourth seed is world No. 33 Brandon Nakashima, who received a bye into the round of 16. Can Shang keep the comeback story rolling in Sichuan’s vibrant tennis scene? Stay tuned! 🔥
Reference(s):
Shang starts Chengdu Open title defense with first win since surgery
cgtn.com
