Seventeen-year-old Shang Juncheng etched his name into Australian Open history, becoming the first Chinese man in the Open Era to clinch a victory at Melbourne Park.
In a remarkable display, the qualifier triumphed over world No. 74 Oscar Otte with a score of 6-2, 6-4, 6-7(2), 7-5, marking a major milestone in his burgeoning career.
Reflecting on his achievement, Shang expressed a mix of surprise and satisfaction, attributing his success to the relentless dedication of his team and himself.
“In some ways, I’m a bit surprised it happened so quickly,” Shang remarked post-match. “But I believe it’s the culmination of hard work from my team and me. I’m just thrilled about what lies ahead.”
Throughout the match, Shang displayed composure and resilience, saving break points in the opening set and maintaining control to secure the win in four sets.
Despite facing adversity, including dropping a set and saving match points, Shang remained steadfast, at the end clinching victory with his fourth break of the match.
His achievement as the youngest player in the tournament and the first 17-year-old male to win a men’s singles match at a Grand Slam since Carlos Alcaraz in 2021 holds special importance for Shang.
“Knowing this is quite a huge accomplishment,” Shang acknowledged. “He’s currently the best player in the world. Watching him on court truly inspires me and other young players. So, achieving this is very meaningful to me.”
Hailing from a sporting background—his father a professional footballer and his mother a world champion table tennis player—Shang joins compatriots Zhang Zhizhen and Wu Yibing in the main draw, marking the first time in the Open Era that three Chinese men have competed in a Grand Slam.
“Zhang and Wu are my inspirations,” Shang emphasized. “They have more experience on tour than me. I look forward to watching them in action in the main draw.”
Following his landmark victory, Shang soared 50 places in the world rankings to a career-high No. 144. His journey continues in the second round where he faces American Francis Tiafoe, the 16th seed, who also secured a four-set victory over German Daniel Altmaier.
While Tiafoe presents a formidable challenge, Shang enters the match with confidence, having defeated four higher-ranked opponents in qualifying and the first round.
As he prepares for his next test, Shang remains determined to build on his early success and make further strides in the tournament.