HANGZHOU, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) — Zhang Zhizhen, China’s top-ranked tennis player, delivered a masterful performance at the ATP 250 Hangzhou Tennis Open, advancing to the quarterfinals after a dominant victory over Italy’s Mattia Bellucci on Saturday. Zhang demonstrated his superior skill and form, securing the win in a swift 77 minutes with a decisive scoreline of 6-3, 6-0.

Zhang’s victory is particularly significant as it marks his seventh consecutive win in Hangzhou, including his stellar performances from last year’s Asian Games. This winning streak not only underscores his consistency but also highlights his growing prowess on the court. As the pride of Chinese tennis, Zhang’s progress in the tournament has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike.

Joining Zhang in the quarterfinals is another Chinese player, Bu Yunchaokete, who entered the tournament with a wildcard. Bu’s advancement to the quarterfinals speaks volumes about the rising talent in Chinese tennis. Commenting on the success of his compatriots, Zhang remarked, “This year everyone’s form and level have improved, sending out a very positive message: this is our home ground, and we can make some moves.”

In the upcoming quarterfinals, Zhang will face Spain’s seasoned player Roberto Carballes Baena. Meanwhile, Bu Yunchaokete is set to take on Kazakhstan’s veteran Mikhail Kukushkin, promising an exciting round of matches for fans.

On the same day, Denmark’s top seed and current world number 14, Holger Rune, made his highly anticipated debut in Hangzhou. However, Rune struggled to find his rhythm and was unexpectedly defeated by Japanese qualifier Yasutaka Uchiyama. The scores of 5-7, 4-6 marked an early exit for Rune from the men’s singles competition at the round of 16, adding a surprising twist to the tournament.

This year’s ATP 250 Hangzhou Tennis Open is shaping up to be a landmark event for Chinese tennis, with multiple homegrown players making significant strides. The tournament has not only provided a platform for showcasing local talent but has also sent a powerful message about the potential of Chinese athletes on the global tennis stage.