Wu Yibing decisively advances to the Australian Open main draw; Bu Yunchaokete defeats a Top 10 player in exhibition match

The 2026 Australian Open is about to begin. Today, Chinese men’s tennis brought a series of uplifting updates: Wu Yibing secured his spot through qualifying rounds, while Bu Yunchaokete defeated a top contender in the customary exhibition, boosting the morale of China’s male players competing at Melbourne Park.

In this morning’s final round of the Australian Open men’s singles qualifiers, Chinese player Wu Yibing defeated American player Boye in straight sets 6-3, 6-2, securing his place in the main draw without dropping a set throughout the three qualifying rounds. This marks Wu’s return to the Australian Open main draw after three years and his sixth Grand Slam main draw appearance following the 2023 US Open. This victory earned him 30 ranking points, elevating his position to 160th, and guaranteed a minimum prize money of 150,000 Australian dollars for the main event.

From the very first qualifying round, Wu Yibing demonstrated excellent form and strong mental resilience. He played each match steadily, showing comprehensive technical skills and resolute tactical execution. This breakthrough represents another milestone in his career and signifies a solid step forward for Chinese men’s tennis in overcoming ranking barriers.

Meanwhile, at the traditional Australian Open warm-up event—the Kooyong Classic—China’s top male player Bu Yunchaokete delivered a surprising victory. Facing Kazakhstan’s Bublik, who has been in excellent form over the past six months and won his first tournament of the season, Bu won in straight sets 6-4, 7-6(4).

This win carries significant weight. Bublik is considered among the elite players just below the top stars of the tennis world, known for his powerful serve and aggressive play. Bu Yunchaokete not only secured a straight-sets victory but also showed composure in the tiebreak—a phase he previously struggled with—demonstrating growth both technically and mentally.

With Wu Yibing’s successful qualification, this Australian Open marks the first time that four male players from mainland China will simultaneously compete in a Grand Slam main draw. They are:Wu Yibing, Shang Juncheng, Bu Yunchaokete, and Zhang Zhizhen. This itself is a historic moment for Chinese men’s tennis.

Bu Yunchaokete will face Canadian star Shapovalov, whose playing style resembles Bublik’s, in the first round of the Australian Open. This exhibition win undoubtedly boosts his confidence and experience. Meanwhile, Wu Yibing will seek further breakthroughs during the main event, continuing his strong form.

From steady performances in the qualifiers to high-level victories in exhibition matches, Chinese men’s tennis players have sent positive signals ahead of the Australian Open. They have not only shown technical improvements but also demonstrated mental readiness and tactical discipline to compete against the world’s best.

Long-awaited breakthroughs for Chinese men’s tennis on the international stage have come closer. The recent performances of Wu Yibing, Bu Yunchaokete, and Shang Juncheng reveal a comprehensive enhancement in power, speed, and tactical awareness. They no longer rely solely on fighting spirit but possess the technical skills to compete with top players worldwide.

As the Australian Open approaches, Chinese men’s tennis players are fully prepared. Regardless of the final outcomes, their performances so far have proven the upward trajectory of Chinese men’s tennis. Every shot and every victory contributes to writing a new chapter in China’s tennis history.

Let us look forward to more surprises from Chinese players under the scorching summer sun of Melbourne, showcasing Chinese strength on the Grand Slam stage and setting new personal bests. Dawn has arrived; Chinese men’s tennis is embracing its own rising sun.(Source: Tennis Home Author: Mei )