Hangzhou-born tennis player Wu Yibing. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]

In tennis, local favorite Wu Yibing scored his first victory at the 2025 Hangzhou Open on Sept 17 night — defeating sixth seed Adrian Mannarino of France 2-1 in a thrilling three-hour battle at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center.

It was Wu's first match win in his hometown tournament, following last year's injury-forced wihtdrawal. After dropping the opening set 4-6, the 26-year-old leveled with a tense 7-6 tiebreak before sealing the decider 7-5 with youthful stamina against the 37-year-old veteran.

Tears returned to Wu's eyes, this time with joy. "This is my first win here in three years. Thanks to my family, coaches and fans who braved the rain to cheer me on. I hope to keep playing well at home and add new chapters to Chinese men's tennis," he said.

Born in Hangzhou in 1999, Wu rose to prominence by winning both the boys' singles and doubles titles at the 2017 US Open. His career has since been marked by setbacks from injuries, but also breakthroughs including his historic 2023 Dallas Open victory — the first ATP Tour singles title for a Chinese mainland player.

Now back from surgery earlier this year, Wu is eyeing a strong run during the China swing. "Injuries are part of sport, but I won't let them define me," he said — adding hopes that fellow Chinese players Zhang Zhizhen and Buyunchaokete would also shine in Hangzhou.

Wu punches the air in victory, after claiming his first win in Hangzhou. [Photo/Hangzhou Daily]