Marin_Cilic_Triumphs_Over_Zhang_Zhizhen_in_Hangzhou_Open_Final

Marin Cilic Triumphs Over Zhang Zhizhen in Hangzhou Open Final

In a thrilling finale at the Hangzhou Open on Tuesday, Croatian tennis star Marin Cilic edged out China’s Zhang Zhizhen with a double tie-break victory, securing a 7-6(5), 7-6(5) win in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province.

The intense match kept spectators on the edge of their seats as both players showcased exceptional skill and determination. Cilic’s triumph marks his first Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour title since winning the St. Petersburg Open in 2021. Remarkably, he clinched this victory entering the tournament as a wild card and being ranked No. 777 in the world—the lowest-ranked champion at any ATP Tour event since 1990.

“Thank you to my family, my boys, my wife. Everyone who has been with me in this difficult period. Working with me day by day, pushing me, and giving me strength and spirit. I am so happy and proud to make this victory not only for me but for them too,” Cilic expressed emotionally after the match.

The 35-year-old veteran reflected on his journey, saying, “It has been a difficult period for me in the past few months. I lost my ranking and I didn’t play too much. So a big thank you to the organizing team for giving me the opportunity with the wild card.”

Zhang Zhizhen, representing the Chinese mainland, delivered a commendable performance throughout the tournament, thrilling local fans and demonstrating the rising talent in Asian tennis. Though falling just short in the final, his efforts signal a promising future for tennis in the region.

The Hangzhou Open highlighted both determination and resilience, with Cilic’s return to form serving as an inspiration to athletes facing setbacks. His 21st Tour-level men’s singles trophy adds to an illustrious career, while Zhang’s performance underscores the growing competitiveness of tennis players from Asia on the global stage.

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