In a thrilling display of resilience and teamwork, Zhang Zhizhen of China and Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic overcame a one-set deficit to defeat Germany’s Jakob Schnaitter and Mark Wallner, securing their place in the men’s doubles round of 16 at the Australian Open on Saturday.
The duo triumphed with a final score of 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 in a tightly contested match held at Melbourne Park. The competition was fierce, with only three service breaks occurring throughout the entire match—one in each set—highlighting the high level of play from both pairs.
Zhang and Machac edged ahead by winning just three more points than their opponents, totaling 103 to the Germans’ 100. The match’s intensity was most apparent in the shorter rallies; 83 of the points won by Zhang and Machac were in four shots or fewer, demonstrating their aggressive and effective playstyle.
In the decisive third set, Zhang and Machac dominated the short exchanges, claiming 35 out of 42 such points. Schnaitter and Wallner’s short-point wins dwindled to 19 in the final set, a sharp decline from the 30 they secured in the opener.
The climax unfolded with Machac serving for the match at 5-4. Facing two break points, the pair remained unshaken as Zhang delivered two stunning volley winners, fending off the German challenge. At deuce, Zhang’s keen judgment led him to let a narrowly out ball pass, setting up their third match point. Machac sealed the victory with an ace, much to the crowd’s delight.
Earlier in the match, Zhang showcased his composure under pressure while serving for the second set. Despite facing two break points, he delivered an unreturnable wide serve to reach set point, which he then converted with a sharp forehand down the line.
Reflecting on their performance, the duo emphasized the importance of maintaining focus during pivotal moments. They expressed excitement about advancing further in the tournament and facing new challenges ahead.
Zhang and Machac will now prepare to face the 15th-seeded pair, Hugo Nys of Monaco and Edouard Roger-Vasselin of France, in the round of 16. Their upcoming opponents bring experience and skill, promising another exhilarating match for tennis fans worldwide.
With momentum on their side, Zhang and Machac aim to continue their inspiring run at the Australian Open, illustrating the power of determination and partnership on the grand stage of international tennis.
Reference(s):
Zhang & Machac rally to advance in men's doubles at Australian Open
cgtn.com
