Chinese-American young player makes history by defeating a star second-generation player, while a Turkish girl praised for her kindness after helping a heat-stricken ball boy

On the first day of the 2026 Australian Open, two young talents stood out under the spotlight. Emerging from the qualifiers, 19-year-old Chinese-American Zheng Rui defeated the 25th seed, American Korda, in a grueling five-set match, 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(0), 6-3, creating the first upset in the men's singles. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Turkish player Senmez made history for Turkey by beating the 11th seed, Aleksandrova, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4. Notably, she was widely praised for her compassionate act of helping a heat-affected ball boy during the match.

Zheng Rui, only 19 years old, had never before won a main draw match at a Grand Slam, let alone defeated a top 30 ranked player.

However, in today’s match, Zheng Rui showed remarkable composure beyond his years. After taking the lead in the first two sets, Korda fought back strongly, pushing the match to a deciding fifth set. Yet Zheng Rui’s steadier and more determined play in the final set secured him the victory, marking a new milestone in his professional tennis career.

“I really can’t put into words how I feel right now,” Zheng Rui said with tears shining in his eyes after the match. “This is the most important win of my career, and I gave everything for this moment.”

Zheng Rui’s father, Zheng Qiao, watched from the stands, witnessing his son’s historic achievement. Born in a rural village in Yichang, Hubei, this physics PhD only started playing tennis after age 30 but became his son’s earliest mentor. Both of Zheng Rui’s parents come from rural Yichang, moved to the U.S. in 1998 for further studies, settled in New Jersey, and switched careers to IT. Zheng Rui’s mother, Liu Mei, from the same hometown, also works in IT. After establishing themselves in the U.S., the couple introduced their son to tennis.

“My father never received professional training, but his love for tennis is pure,” Zheng Rui shared after the match. “We always practiced at community courts. He was my first coach and my strongest supporter.”

In this match, Zheng Rui excelled in multiple areas, which proved key to his win. Aces: Zheng 11, Korda 15; first-serve points won: Zheng 74%, Korda 68%; break point conversions: Zheng 5/12 (42%), Korda 3/8 (38%); total points won: Zheng 147, Korda 138. Zheng’s superior break point conversion and clutch play, especially two breaks in the final set, demonstrated maturity beyond his years.

Former world No. 4 Blake wrote on social media: “Just witnessed a match that could reshape tennis. Zheng Rui showed not only skill but incredible mental toughness. Coming through qualifiers and beating Korda in five sets, this kid has a bright future.”

Tennis analyst Gillian Myer commented, “Zheng Rui’s victory is no fluke. His baseline depth and angle control are impressive, especially his backhand down the line under pressure, a weapon usually seen in veterans.” Current player Fritz simply reacted: “Wow, Zheng Rui!” accompanied by three fire emojis, expressing his amazement at the win.

While Zheng Rui was making history, a touching scene unfolded on Court 22. Turkish girl Senmez noticed a ball boy near the umpire’s chair wobbling and then collapsing heavily on his back during her match against Aleksandrova.

Senmez recalled after the match, “After he fell, he tried to get up and keep working, but I could tell something was wrong. So I immediately stopped the match, helped him up, and took him to a shaded area to rest.”

Senmez emphasized, “In situations like this, tennis takes a backseat; the child’s health comes first. I’m glad I could help him.” When asked if stopping the match affected her rhythm, she smiled, “If I hadn’t done that, it probably would have hurt my performance because I’d be worried about him the whole time.”

Medical staff later confirmed the ball boy was suffering from heatstroke, and Senmez’s prompt action prevented more serious consequences. This moment was captured on camera and quickly spread on social media, with many praising Senmez for “winning both on and off the court.” One netizen said, “Sportsmanship isn’t just about the scoreboard. Senmez showed what a true champion is — caring for others even during intense competition.”

Senmez will face Czech qualifier Noskova in the second round. Speaking about her goals, she remained humble: “I just want to play every point well and enjoy being on a Grand Slam stage. Today’s win was special, but it’s behind me now. I need to focus on the next match.” Let’s wish this kind-hearted Turkish young lady all the best as she advances further in this Australian Open.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)