Seventy Years of Waiting: Wong Chak-lam’s First US Open Main Draw Win Marks a New Era for Hong Kong Tennis

Yesterday at the US Open first round, 21-year-old Hong Kong player Wong Chak-lam made history. This young qualifier overcame local player Kovacevic 6-4, 7-5, 7-6(4) to claim the first Grand Slam main draw win by a Hong Kong player since the Open Era began, marking a breakthrough moment in seventy years of Hong Kong tennis.“This victory is a milestone in my life, and I’m thrilled to achieve something no Hong Kong player has before,” Wong said emotionally after the match. “Coming from Hong Kong, just reaching the US Open is already a challenge. This moment means a lot to me, my family, and everyone in Hong Kong.”

Wong Chak-lam’s win ended a seventy-year wait for Hong Kong tennis. The last time Hong Kong players appeared in a Grand Slam main draw was at Wimbledon in 1954, when Edwin Tsai and Ip Koon Hung represented Hong Kong. After seventy-one years, Wong has finally brought a breakthrough to Hong Kong tennis.

Having battled through the qualifiers, Wong demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill. Facing the experienced Kovacevic, Wong showed no fear, maintaining steady serves and holding his own in baseline rallies, ultimately winning in straight sets and becoming the brightest dark horse at the US Open.

While showing sharpness on the court, Wong remains humble and grateful off it. He especially thanked his girlfriend, Filipino tennis rising star Eala, for her support.“When I first went to Nadal’s academy in Spain, Eala helped me a lot, including adapting to the training environment there,” Wong revealed. “She’s also performing well here at the US Open. I hope she keeps it up, and I’ll celebrate with her later.”This cross-national tennis relationship has become a heartwarming story at the US Open. The two Asian rising stars support each other and progress together, showcasing the power of sports to transcend borders.

After his first-round win, Wong boldly declared on social media: “Hong Kong! Let’s keep breaking records together!” This message quickly spread throughout Hong Kong, inspiring countless young people.“Whether people know me because of today’s US Open match, watch the live broadcast in Hong Kong, or have always supported me, they don’t always know if I’ll win. Sometimes they doubt me, sometimes they believe in me. I will keep working hard,” Wong said, demonstrating his grounded and determined character.

Wong also expressed that if he advances further, he hopes his family can fly to New York to support him in person. This emphasis on family and gratitude reveals the maturity of this young athlete.

Wong’s breakthrough is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone for Hong Kong tennis development. His success proves to the world that Hong Kong athletes can achieve excellence on the top international stage, breaking traditional perceptions about Hong Kong’s tennis strength.

Following this historic victory, Wong Chak-lam has become a new symbol of Hong Kong sports. Every step he takes is making new history and motivating more young people in Hong Kong to pick up tennis rackets and chase their dreams.

The US Open competition continues, and Wong’s journey is far from over. Regardless of how far he goes, he has already made the name “Hong Kong” shine brightly on the global tennis map. The future of this 21-year-old rising star is something everyone looks forward to.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Mei)