In a stunning display of resilience, Shang Juncheng of China outlasted 27th seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan 6-3, 3-6, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4 in the men’s singles first round at the US Open on Monday.
The victory was particularly special for Shang, marking his first win at the final Grand Slam of the season and avenging a loss to Bublik at Indian Wells in March. Despite winning 72 percent of his first-serve points—slightly behind Bublik’s 83 percent—Shang capitalized on his opponent’s 10 double faults.
Bublik led in aces (22) and winners (54), showcasing his powerful serve and aggressive play. However, Shang’s strong return game and timely conversion of six break points enabled him to overcome a 2-1 deficit in sets and ultimately secure the match. Four of his six break-point conversions came in the pivotal fourth and fifth sets, including two consecutive breaks that gave him a commanding 5-0 lead in the fourth set and another two that propelled him ahead 4-3 in the final set.
Shang will face Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain in the second round. The 31-year-old Spaniard defeated Jan Choinski of Great Britain 6-2, 6-3, 5-7, 6(5)-7, 6-3 in a grueling match that lasted over four and a half hours.
Meanwhile, Shang’s compatriot Bu Yunchaokete faced a challenging match against eighth-seeded Casper Rudd of Norway, losing 7-6(2), 6-2, 6-2 on Monday.
Reference(s):
Shang Juncheng upsets Alexander Bublik in five-set battle at U.S. Open
cgtn.com
