In a nail-biting clash at the ATP Hangzhou Open, China's top-ranked male tennis player Zhang Zhizhen rallied from a set down to defeat compatriot Buyunchaokete 6-7(2), 6-4, 7-6(3) on Thursday. The marathon match, lasting nearly three hours, showcased resilience and tactical adaptability as Zhang overcame two match points in the decisive third set.
The tournament holds special significance for both athletes. Buyunchaokete, who reached last year's semifinals as a wildcard, saw his 2023 campaign halted by Zhang in the same venue. This year's rematch saw Zhang leverage his experience to turn the tide after losing a tense first-set tiebreak, capitalizing on his opponent's unforced errors to force a decider.
With the victory, Zhang advances to face Czech Republic's Dalibor Svrcina in the second round. The match highlights China's growing presence in professional tennis, with the Hangzhou Open becoming a key platform for domestic players to test their skills against international competition.
