China’s Wang Xinyu faced a tough challenge against 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu, ultimately falling in a hard-fought three-set match in the first round of the French Open on Monday.
Raducanu secured the first set 7-5 after a grueling exchange, but Wang rebounded impressively in the second set. She surged ahead with a 5-1 lead and held off a late comeback from Raducanu to take the set 6-4.
In the decisive third set, the 22-year-old Raducanu regained control, dictating the pace to close out the match with a 6-3 victory. Raducanu advances to face fifth seed Iga Swiatek of Poland in the second round.
Wang Xinyu, 21, has been making waves on the international tennis scene, particularly in doubles. She reached the quarterfinals at Roland Garros in women’s doubles in 2022 and continues to show promise with her powerful baseline game and aggressive style.
With Wang’s exit, Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen now becomes the only Chinese player remaining in the French Open women’s singles draw. Zheng will carry the hopes of Chinese fans as she progresses in the tournament.
On the men’s side, China’s Bu Yunchaokete was eliminated by Austria’s Filip Misolic in a four-set battle, 5-7, 7-6, 7-6, 6-1. Bu, ranked World No. 170, started strong by claiming the first set but was edged out in two consecutive tiebreakers as momentum shifted to Misolic.
Competing in his first Grand Slam main draw, the 23-year-old Bu showcased his talent and determination. Despite his valiant effort, critical moments slipped away, and Misolic dominated the final set to secure his victory.
Bu’s journey at the French Open marks a significant step in his career, highlighting the rising presence of Chinese players in international men’s tennis. His performance in ATP Challenger events leading up to the Grand Slam has garnered attention and set the stage for future success.
As the French Open continues, all eyes will be on Zheng Qinwen as she represents China in the singles competition. Fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see how far she can advance in this prestigious tournament.
