Despite a 2-1 loss to defending champions Germany, China has secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the United Cup in Perth, Australia. On Monday, China emerged as the best-performing group stage runner-up in Group E, advancing to the knockout stage.
In the men’s singles match, China’s Zhang Zhizhen faced World No. 2 Alexander Zverev. Zhang started strong, breaking Zverev twice to take the first set 6-2. However, Zverev bounced back, winning the next two sets 6-0 and 6-2, giving Germany an early lead.
Next up, Gao Xinyu represented China in the women’s singles against Laura Siegemund. Gao dominated the first set 6-1, but Siegemund fought back to take the second set 6-3. In a thrilling final set, Gao regained her momentum to win 6-3, leveling the overall score.
In the decisive mixed doubles match, Zverev and Siegemund teamed up to defeat China’s Zhang Shuai and Zheng Zhizhen 6-2, 7-6(3). Despite the loss, China’s performance throughout the group stage was enough to advance them to the quarterfinals.
The United Cup continues to heat up, and China’s young talent is making a significant impact on the international tennis stage.
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China advance to United Cup knockout stage despite loss to Germany
cgtn.com
