Shang Juncheng celebrates winning the Chengdu Open. © Twitter (@YouthChina)
Teenager Shang Juncheng made history on September 24, 2024, by becoming the second Chinese player to win an ATP title, defeating Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti 7-6(4), 6-1 in the Chengdu Open final. The 19-year-old, currently ranked 55th worldwide, secured his first ATP Tour title and became the youngest ATP winner this season. His remarkable performance, particularly against Musetti, showcased his talent and resilience, making him a rising star in men’s tennis.
Shang’s victory is a significant milestone for Chinese tennis, where the country has found more success in women’s singles, highlighted by Li Na’s Grand Slam titles. While Wu Yibing became the first Chinese male player to capture an ATP title last year, Shang’s win signals that China’s presence in men’s tennis is rising. His achievement follows a promising junior career, where he once held the number one ranking, and now he’s making waves at the senior level.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Winner | Shang Juncheng |
| Runner-Up | Lorenzo Musetti |
| Match Score | 7-6(4), 6-1 |
| Tournament | Chengdu Open |
| Date | September 24, 2024 |
| Significance | Second Chinese player to win an ATP title |
| Age | 19 years old |
| World Ranking | 55th |
| Next Gen ATP Finals Qualification | Boosts chances for Shang |
| Previous Chinese ATP Champion | Wu Yibing at the Dallas Open (2022) |
This victory also boosts Shang’s chances of qualifying for the Next Gen ATP Finals, a prestigious tournament for the world’s top 20-and-under players. Being part of this elite group would further solidify his status as a player to watch, and his win in Chengdu is likely just the beginning of what could be a successful ATP Tour career. His qualification would provide a platform to challenge other young talents and continue his rapid rise.
Meanwhile, veteran Croatian player Marin Cilic also made headlines on the same day by winning the Hangzhou Open, becoming the lowest-ranked champion in ATP history. Ranked 777th before the tournament, Cilic’s win over China’s top player, Zhang Zhizhen, in two tie-break sets marked his first title since 2021. It was a remarkable comeback for the 35-year-old, who had a knee injury sidelined, and it lifted him to 212th in the rankings.
Shang Juncheng’s breakthrough in Chengdu and Cilic’s return to form in Hangzhou mark a historic week for tennis. While Shang represents the future of Chinese men’s tennis, Cilic’s win is a testament to perseverance and longevity in the sport. Both victories highlight the unpredictable nature of tennis and the exciting possibilities for the players ahead.
