Billie Jean King Cup: Hong Kong promoted to Asian elite again – challenge is to stay there
- City’s tennis team earn place in Asia’s top tier for fifth time since 2000, and players aim to show they belong in that company
Captain Zhang Ling is determined to ensure her Hong Kong tennis team avoid immediate relegation next year after winning promotion to the Billie Jean King Cup’s top regional group on Saturday.
Hong Kong defeated hosts Malaysia 2-0 in the play-off in Kuala Lumpur after Cody Wong Hong-yi and Eudice Chong emerged victorious in their singles matches at the National Tennis Centre.
It lifted Hong Kong and Thailand to Asia Group One next year – the fifth time this century the city has earned promotion, after successes in 2001, 2006, 2014 and 2017. Promotion, however, is only the start, given Hong Kong were swiftly relegated again on all four previous occasions.
“Even after China and South Korea’s promotion [to World Group Two], the top Asian group is still very strong,” Zhang, 34, said. “New Zealand has a world No 1 in the doubles [in Erin Routliffe] and then there are tough opponents like India, so it won’t be easy.
“It’s too early to aim for consecutive promotion, so the most important thing is to try retaining our spot.
“Chong and Wong is a decent doubles pair. Our team spirit is good, so our players must continue to raise their standing when playing on the tour.”
