Hong Kong Tennis Open: local boy Coleman Wong elated at ‘special’ night despite defeat – and forecasts ‘crucial year ahead’
- Wild card Wong loses to world No 27 Lorenzo Musetti, but brings Centre Court to its feet by playing his part in a lively match
- ‘Nothing beats the feeling of playing my first ATP match at Victoria Park,’ the teenager says
Hong Kong tennis’ rising star Coleman Wong Chak-lam said he was on the right track after putting in a courageous fight at the Bank of China Hong Kong Tennis Open, despite losing to Lorenzo Musetti.
The two-time junior grand slam doubles champion lost 6-4, 7-5 in the first round at Victoria Park on Tuesday, but showed resilience and tenacity to stay competitive for a lively hour and 47 minutes.
“I think this is the best start ever for the season, nothing beats the feeling of playing my first ATP match at Victoria Park,” said the 19-year-old, who received a wild card to play in his first ATP-level tournament.
“This is my hometown and where I started playing tennis, so it really means a lot to me and it’s special.
“This is a crucial year ahead. I had some psychological and even rankings breakthroughs last year, and the improvement is massive compared to where I started, so there’s no regret at all.”
