Match Report | Wu Yibing Misses Hong Kong Open Quarterfinals, Wong Chak-lam Makes Historic Home Triumph

On January 7th, 2026, the ATP Bank of China Hong Kong Tennis Open featured the singles second round. Chinese competitor Wu Yibing lost 6-3, 2-6, 1-6 against Russian star Rublev. Meanwhile, Hong Kong player Wong Chak-lam overturned the match against Canadian Diallo with a 1-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory, securing his maiden tour quarterfinal appearance.

Wong Chak-lam Photo: Bank of China Hong Kong Tennis Open

Wong Chak-lam took the court first against a taller opponent. Early in the match, Wong struggled to create many chances and despite saving four break points, he lost the first set 1-6. In the next two sets, Wong improved his baseline and net play, breaking serve early in both sets to take the lead. Although he faced some fluctuations, buoyed by the home crowd’s support, he adjusted well and won both sets 7-5 to complete the comeback. This victory marked Wong’s first career tour quarterfinal, achieved on home soil. After the match, he expressed his excitement: “It all feels surreal having so many fans here supporting me. When I was up 5-2 but got caught up, I wasn’t sure if I could close it out, but I kept believing in myself. I’m very grateful to everyone who came out today — thank you for believing in me.”

Wong Chak-lam Photo: Visual China Group

Talking about his singles opponent Diallo, who is also his doubles partner, Wong laughed: “It’s a bit strange beating him today and then partnering with him tomorrow! But we are good friends, and the match brought out the best in both of us. I’m confident we’ll give our all in tomorrow’s doubles match.”

Wu Yibing Photo: Visual China Group

Next up was Wu Yibing, who started strong by taking the first set 6-3. However, world No.16 Rublev showed great adaptability, breaking twice late in the second set to win it 6-2. In the deciding set, Wu’s serve faltered; he saved only one of four break points and eventually lost 1-6, ending his run in this year’s Hong Kong Open at the round of 16. Immediately after the match, Wu barely paused before joining his coaching team on court for additional serving practice and match review. Wu’s next event will be the Australian Open singles qualifiers.

Rublev Photo: Bank of China Hong Kong Tennis Open

In other Hong Kong matches, Croatian veteran Cilic was defeated 5-7, 3-6 by Portugal’s Borges, who will face Rublev in the quarterfinals. Top seed Musetti came back from behind to beat Echeverri and will meet Wong Chak-lam in the next round.

(Article and editing by: Sunny)