In a thrilling start to the United Cup, Gao Xinyu and Zhang Zhizhen led China to a commanding 3-0 victory over Brazil in Perth on Friday. The Chinese team showcased resilience and skill, overcoming challenges to secure an unassailable lead ahead of the mixed doubles contest at the RAC Arena in Western Australia.
China’s fifth-seeded team faced a potential setback when women’s World No. 5 Zheng Qinwen withdrew from the lineup to prioritize rest before the Australian Open. Stepping into her shoes, the 175th-ranked Gao Xinyu delivered a heroic performance against Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia, ranked 17th globally.
Despite losing the first set 5-7, Gao fought back tenaciously, taking the second set 6-4. The match evolved into a marathon battle, lasting three hours and 22 minutes—the longest women’s singles match in tournament history. Both players grappled with physical strain; Gao required a medical timeout in the second set due to cramps and had her left thigh heavily strapped. Haddad Maia also succumbed to cramps in the gripping third set, resorting to underhand serves to continue playing.
Undeterred, Gao clinched the decisive third set 7-5, marking the biggest victory of her career and her first win against a Top 50 player. “I have no idea what happened; my brain was empty, and my whole body was cramping,” Gao said after the match. “It’s a really big stage, and it was a high-quality match. I just pushed myself.”
Meanwhile, Zhang Zhizhen put on an almost flawless display in his singles match, further solidifying China’s dominance over Brazil. With these victories, China holds a strong position as the tournament progresses, demonstrating the depth and determination of its players, even in the face of adversity.
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Gao Xinyu, Zhang Zhizhen lead China to 3-0 opening win at United Cup
cgtn.com
