Rebeka, playing through injury, smashed 16 aces to defeat Zhang Shuai, aiming to claim another Grand Slam title this season, while young Shang secured a strong season opener.

Today, during the second round of the WTA 500 Brisbane singles, Chinese player Zhang Shuai and Rebeka engaged in a quality contest, with Zhang unfortunately losing. At the same time, in the ATP Hong Kong Open, young Chinese player Shang Juncheng secured a straight-sets victory, achieving a smooth season kickoff.

Prior to the match, Rebeka disclosed a foot injury sustained during winter training, which caused public concern over her form. Zhang Shuai had performed well in early season matches, and tactically, if she could use solid baseline play combined with quick transitions to make Rebeka move, her chances would be significant. Fans also noted that Zhang must exploit changes in pace to find opportunities.

Pre-match odds favored Rebeka, known for her powerful serve and aggressive play. Some fans predicted, “Zhang Shuai needs to keep unforced errors extremely low and apply pressure on Rebeka’s second serve; Rebeka, on the other hand, must rely on her strong serve to gain advantage and simplify points.”

At the start of the first set, both players quickly found their rhythm, but in terms of service holds, Rebeka’s serve was clearly stronger. She held her opening service game with four straight points, showing good form. Zhang felt the pressure in the third game and was broken. After Rebeka held serve again to lead 3-1, despite Zhang breaking back in the seventh game, Rebeka closed the set 6-3.

Statistics from the first set show Rebeka hit 3 aces with an 85% first-serve success rate; Zhang had only 1 ace, and her winners were close in number to her opponent’s.

In the second set, Zhang adjusted her tactics by changing her return position on first serves and focusing on defending against Rebeka’s second serve. This paid off as she broke in the fourth game and, after holding serve, extended the lead to 4-1, drawing applause from the crowd. Many believed Zhang was in control and could push the match to a decider. However, Rebeka demonstrated the resilience of a top player.

After holding serve strongly, Rebeka quickly broke back in the seventh game to narrow the score to 3-4, then held serve again with powerful serving to level the set. Towards the end, Zhang held in the ninth game to lead 5-4, but Rebeka remained unfazed, delivering unstoppable serves to win three consecutive games and take the set 7-5 in a strong comeback.

A viewer commented during the live broadcast: “Zhang’s tactics were executed very well, but Rebeka always managed to win points easily on serve during tight moments, making her impossible to break.”

Throughout the match, Rebeka unleashed an astonishing 16 aces. Although Zhang committed only 5 unforced errors, Rebeka dominated in serve points and key moments, which ultimately decided the outcome.

After the match, Rebeka said, “I want to carry everything I worked on last season into this one. I hope to go as far as possible in every Grand Slam, maybe even win one. We’ll see. I have big goals.” Regarding her foot injury, she admitted it affected her movement somewhat but she plans to adjust positively.

Despite Zhang’s loss, fans highly praised her performance: “Zhang played very well, her baseline game was fast and steady, but her opponent’s serve at critical points was terrifying—either an ace or an outright winner, leaving no chance.” Others said, “Losing to such serving form is understandable; Zhang’s level remains strong.”

Turning to the Hong Kong Open, young Chinese player Shang Juncheng faced Komesana in the first round. As a local hopeful, Shang was highly anticipated, with fans optimistic he would advance using his home advantage and solid baseline skills.

In the first set, Shang quickly found his form, breaking serve in the third game—the only break of the set—and then both players held serve to finish 6-4 in his favor. The second set saw continued service holds with the score tied 4-4. At a crucial moment, Shang’s opponent’s first-serve percentage dropped due to nerves, allowing Shang to seize the break and then hold serve to win the set 6-4, clinching the match 2-0.

The match lasted 77 minutes, with Shang hitting 6 aces and saving his only break point successfully.

After the match, Shang happily said, “I’m glad to start the new season in Hong Kong. Thanks so much to the crowd for their support. I always perform well here (making the semifinals two years in a row), and I hope to go even further this year!” Fans responded with encouragement: “Shang is getting steadier, his serve and forehand have improved! Playing at home gives a special energy, looking forward to more great results this year!”

Although Zhang Shuai didn’t advance further in Brisbane, her competitive form raises hopes for her new season; meanwhile, Shang Juncheng’s home win continues his strong streak at this event. Both Chinese players have started their seasons in their own ways.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)