Zhang Zhizhen reveals China’s Davis Cup lineup strategy: lost to Borges in practice, missing first-day appearance

In today’s Davis Cup World Group II final, China’s men’s tennis team delivered great news. Zhang Zhizhen first partnered with Zhou Yi to overcome the Portuguese pair Borges/Cabral in a three-set doubles match on the second day, then after a short 30-minute rest, he beat Borges in straight sets in singles. These vital two points led China to a 3-1 victory over Portugal, successfully qualifying for the 2024 Davis Cup World Group I! Notably, this is the first time China has reached World Group I since the Davis Cup adopted its current format!

From the shocking loss in the opening match to the heroic efforts of Wu Yibing and Zhang Zhizhen that turned the tide, this Davis Cup competition has truly been “thrilling”!

After the match, Zhang Zhizhen shared his feelings and thoughts on the court today: “We performed well in doubles, Zhou Yi helped a lot and took much pressure off me. His return game on crucial points was excellent.” Today, this “twin tower” duo, both over 1.90 meters tall, used their serving advantage and net coordination to withstand pressure in key moments. Many fans praised this pair highly and even gave them a nickname — the ‘Zhen’ heart and ‘Yi’ spirit combination — showing how much the fans adore this team.

Regarding his singles performance, Zhang Zhizhen said, “My serving was better handled than my opponent’s, and I delivered high-quality returns in some critical games. After winning the doubles, I entered the singles match with greater confidence.”

Additionally, Zhang Zhizhen revealed details about China’s internal lineup decisions after the match. Originally, Buyun Chaokete was planned to play the second singles match, but after a team meeting following the first day’s games, the coaching staff decided Zhang Zhizhen would play two matches in one day.

“Actually, in pre-match practice, Borges was in great form and even beat me 6-2,” Zhang Zhizhen laughed, “but after overall team consideration, the adjustment was made. Although I only had 30 minutes to rest, I was already prepared for such an arrangement.”

This adjustment proved to be wise and decisive. Zhang Zhizhen not only managed his physical energy well but also mentally prepared himself for playing two matches consecutively.

Regarding the breakthrough moment for Chinese men’s tennis, former national team coach Wang Yue commented after the match: “This reflects the Chinese men’s team’s collective fighting ability. Zhang Zhizhen demonstrated the versatility and responsibility of a top player, while Zhou Yi’s growth in doubles is also impressive.”

Tennis commentator Chen Junle wrote on social media: “From Zhang Zhizhen’s consistent double victories in one day to the team’s flexible tactical adjustments based on real match situations, this victory marks the emergence of true ‘team competitiveness’ in Chinese men’s tennis.”

On social media, fans were jubilant. One wrote, “Zhang Zhizhen was a real iron man today! Carrying both doubles and singles — that’s what a leader should be! Zhou Yi’s doubles improvement is huge; those crucial returns were priceless!” Another commented, “The coaching staff’s decision was very bold, letting Borges rest and trusting Zhang Zhizhen’s endurance. The results speak for themselves!”

Some fans also remarked, “Seeing the Chinese men’s team unite and fight like this is truly moving! We have really arrived in World Group I! Wu Yibing scored on day one, Zhang Zhizhen sealed the win on day two — this is the power of the dual core!”

Advancing to World Group I means China’s men’s tennis will face traditional powerhouses like Croatia, Argentina, and Belgium next year. Captain Zeng Shaoxuan stated: “This victory validates every team member. The challenges in World Group I will be greater, but we are ready.”

With players like Zhang Zhizhen, Wu Yibing, and Buyun Chaokete maturing, and the doubles teams growing more cohesive, Chinese men’s tennis is entering a golden era for team competitions. This Davis Cup breakthrough undoubtedly injects strong momentum into the 2024 season.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)