Mutual admiration between Chinese heritage, Michael Chang discusses successful partnership with Leander Qian

In 1989, at just 17 years old, Michael Chang became the youngest Grand Slam champion in men's tennis at Roland Garros. Over thirty years later, this record remains unbroken. Chang's success during his playing career has continued into his coaching career. He helped Kei Nishikori reach a Grand Slam final, and now he works alongside the younger Leander Qian, who also shares Vietnamese Chinese heritage, forming one of the most successful coach-player relationships in recent tennis.

Michael Chang (Photo: Visual China)

The two began their collaboration last July. During Leander Qian's first-round match against Novak Djokovic at the US Open, Michael Chang first appeared in his player's box. Since then, Qian won his first ATP Tour title in Metz, reached the final of the China Open, claimed the Next Gen ATP Finals trophy, and broke into the Top 30 rankings. This 20-year-old rising star has firmly established himself among the most notable new talents in tennis.

Despite the age difference of over thirty years between coach and player, Michael Chang and Leander Qian share many similarities. Both achieved early fame in their careers and possess similar playing styles. Their shared faith and heritage further strengthen their bond.

“We share the same faith, which gives our relationship a unique driving force,” Michael Chang revealed, describing himself as a devout Christian. “He is full of passion every time he competes. I haven't seen him wanting a week off. He is always eager. I'm not sure everyone has that. He desires to compete against the world's top players, and this will only bring him more success.”

Michael Chang and Leander Qian

For Chinese fans, it's easy to notice the shared Chinese heritage in both individuals, which may be one reason they came together and continue to achieve success.

“I always care about Asian tennis, American Asian tennis. I enjoy working with him,” Michael Chang said. “Seeing another Asian American have the opportunity to perform well on the tour, and I can share some of my experience to help him achieve his goals, feels very meaningful.”

They first met at the Hong Kong event early last year. At that time, Chang knew little about this young left-handed player. However, Leander Qian quickly made a name for himself at the Australian Open, defeating Daniil Medvedev in a marathon five-set match and reaching his first Grand Slam quarterfinal.

“I think he is a very special person,” Michael Chang said in an interview at Indian Wells about his student. “He thinks more on the court than most players. He is a very tenacious fighter. He isn't the type who shouts 'Come on!' after a good shot; he doesn't have that personality. But he keeps fighting and never gives up, which I really admire. He is highly talented and very intelligent. Seeing him achieve such great success is fantastic. Hopefully, we can continue working hard in this direction.”

Leander Qian (Visual China)

“I am a thoughtful person on the court. I enjoy trying to find ways to win and constantly seeking improvement,” said Michael Chang, whose world ranking peaked at No. 2. “From a coaching perspective, combining these aspects is very interesting. Whether I'm working with Leander Qian or guiding my children... Helping others improve and seeing smiles on their faces is truly enjoyable. For me, it's very rewarding.”

Before partnering with Leander Qian, Michael Chang was already one of the respected coaches in tennis. During the off-season in 2013, he began working with Kei Nishikori. Within a year, Nishikori entered the world's Top 10 for the first time and reached his first Grand Slam final at the 2014 US Open.

“(Nishikori) was already a very good player at that time, but it was difficult for him to break into the Top 10,” Michael Chang recalled. “Working with him and witnessing him achieve that goal in 2014 was a very pleasant process. I experienced some significant matches with him... His journey at the 2014 US Open was extraordinary. Winning his first title in front of the home crowd in Tokyo was also incredibly exciting. There are many fond memories, but most importantly, seeing his technical improvement and mental maturity.”

Kei Nishikori (Photo: Visual China)

“I no longer play on the tour, but tennis remains a very important part of my life,” Michael Chang said when asked about his path to coaching. “This wasn't a result I deliberately pursued. Opportunities naturally arose, allowing me to work with some outstanding players. Kei Nishikori was one, and now Leander Qian is another.”

Leander Qian's match record against Daniil Medvedev is often discussed (3 wins, 1 loss), but more noteworthy is his current favorable record against Top 10 players in their 11 encounters (6 wins, 5 losses), including his recent victory over compatriot Ben Shelton at Indian Wells. We have reason to believe this is just the beginning for him.

(Interview content compiled from ATP official website)