Amidst the roaring cheers of his home fans, Shang Juncheng achieved a monumental milestone in his career by winning his first ATP title at the Chengdu Open. The 19-year-old Chinese tennis player defeated Lorenzo Musetti with a score of 7-6(4), 6-1, announcing his arrival on the world stage.
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This was Shang’s first ATP final, and he played with remarkable composure. With this victory, Shang became the first man born in 2005 to win an ATP title and joined the ranks of Wu Yibing, who had previously defeated John Isner to win the Dallas title in 2023, making him the second Chinese ATP champion.
Shang’s Impressive Performance
In his first encounter with Musetti, the left-handed Shang showcased his superior skills. He closed the first set tiebreak with consecutive aces and powerful forehand shots, denying Musetti his third career ATP title. This win marked Shang’s third Top 20 victory, making him the tenth player this season to win an ATP title on home soil.
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Shang faced some difficulties in the fifth game of the first set when Musetti challenged his serve, taking the longest game to lead 3-2. However, the young Chinese player quickly regained control, breaking back and taking the lead at 6-5. Although he couldn’t close out the set immediately, Shang maintained his focus, winning the tiebreak 7-6(4), and gaining a significant advantage going into the second set.
Dominance in the Second Set
Entering the second set, Shang’s aggressive play intensified. He overcame a grueling 12-point game and continued his momentum by breaking Musetti’s serve twice to take a 2-0 lead. Despite Musetti’s efforts to change the rhythm with slice shots, Shang responded with strong forehand attacks, solidifying his lead at 4-1.
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As he inched closer to his first title, Shang saved multiple break points and converted his second championship point, sealing a remarkable victory in 99 minutes. This win not only marked Shang’s first ATP title but also underscored his rapid development as a player on the global stage.
A New Era for Chinese Tennis
Shang Juncheng’s victory symbolizes a new wave for Chinese tennis, alongside Wu Yibing, as they bring fresh hope to the sport in their country. Shang’s flexible playstyle and unwavering fighting spirit throughout the tournament demonstrate his readiness to compete at the highest level.
The triumph at Chengdu Open is more than just a personal milestone for Shang—it’s a statement for Chinese tennis on the world stage. By overcoming pressure from his home crowd, Shang not only clinched his first title but also opened a new chapter in his burgeoning career. With his current form and resilience, Shang Juncheng is poised to achieve even greater heights in the future.
In the coming years, tennis enthusiasts can expect to see more outstanding performances from Shang and other rising Chinese players. Shang’s journey has only just begun, and he is on track to become one of the brightest stars in the tennis world.
