Hubert Hurkacz will face an unexpected opponent in the third round of the Shanghai Masters after Chinese wildcard Yi Zhou pulled off a stunning upset against former world number five Lorenzo Musetti on Friday.
The 21-year-old from Beijing, currently ranked 277th in the world, defeated the Italian 7-6 (9-7), 3-6, 7-6 (7-1) in a match that showcased his resilience and attacking prowess. Zhou saved three set points in the first-set tie-break before dominating the final tie-break to seal victory.
“I don’t believe it and I believe it,” Zhou said after the match, according to the official tournament website. “I proved to myself that what I’m doing is right. I want to enjoy the happiness now, and tomorrow I’ll be back, do my training and prepare for the next match.”
Historic achievement for low-ranked player
Zhou’s victory marks a rare achievement in Shanghai Masters history. He becomes only the third player ranked outside the top 300 to reach the third round of the tournament. The other two instances both occurred in 2024: compatriot Wu Yibing, ranked 560th and a 2017 junior US Open champion, and Japanese player Yosuke Watanuki, ranked 336th.
The Beijing-born player struck 14 aces during the match and demonstrated particular composure in the crucial tie-breaks. Before facing Musetti, Zhou had watched the match between Karen Khachanov and Britain’s Arthur Fery, which the Russian won after three tie-breaks.
“It convinced me that everyone has a chance to win two tie-breaks, so why shouldn’t I be able to do it?” Zhou explained, adding that he was delighted to be playing on the centre court again.
First meeting with Hurkacz
Zhou will now face the defending champion Hurkacz, who earlier defeated four-time Shanghai winner Novak Djokovic in the evening session. It will be the first career meeting between the Polish star and the Chinese wildcard, presenting a significant challenge for the home favourite despite his recent form.
According to Polsat Sport, which holds broadcasting rights for the tournament in Poland, the match represents a crucial opportunity for Hurkacz to build momentum as he defends his 2023 title.
What this means for Poles in the UK
For Polish tennis fans in Britain, Hurkacz’s progression through the Shanghai Masters offers an opportunity to follow one of Poland’s leading sportsmen as he defends his title. While facing a wildcard ranked 277th might appear straightforward on paper, Zhou’s upset victory over Musetti demonstrates he cannot be underestimated. The Chinese player will have home crowd support and the confidence of a major scalp.
UK-based fans can expect the match to take place over the weekend as the tournament progresses to the third round. Hurkacz, who defeated Djokovic to reach this stage, will be aiming to maintain his form and avoid becoming another upset victim for the inspired wildcard. The outcome could significantly impact the Polish player’s ATP rankings and his preparation for the season’s final events.