Shang Juncheng Makes Historic Advance to Chengdu Open Final
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, China's Shang Juncheng has secured his first-ever Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour final berth at the Chengdu Open. The rising star defeated Germany's Yannick Hanfmann 6-4, 6-4 in the men's singles semifinals held on Monday in Chengdu, located in southwest China's Sichuan Province.
Shang, showing exceptional form, claimed both sets by converting crucial break points in the third game of each set and sealing the victories with his powerful serves. “I felt that I was in good form when I woke up this morning,” Shang shared during the post-match press conference. “I want to thank every spectator for helping me advance to the final. I’m glad to make it to an ATP Tour final for the first time in my career.”
The 18-year-old will face Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti in the final on Tuesday. Musetti, who recently claimed the bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, secured his spot in the final by defeating Russia’s Alibek Kachmazov 6-4, 6-2 in the other semifinal match. Musetti has already won two ATP Tour titles in his career, both in 2022, at the Hamburg European Open and the Napoli Cup.
Looking ahead to the final, Shang expressed both respect and enthusiasm for his upcoming opponent. “I will take a break first to prepare for tomorrow,” he said. “Musetti has been performing well this summer. It will be an exciting match. I trained with him one or two years ago in Miami. He was already a world top-class player when I was 17 or 18. He is several years older than me. He’s great, both as a person and a player, and I look forward to playing with him.”
The championship match at the Chengdu Open will mark the first-ever meeting between Shang and Musetti, adding an extra layer of anticipation for tennis fans worldwide.
Reference(s):
China's Shang Juncheng reaches first ATP Tour final at Chengdu Open
cgtn.com
