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China's Wu Yibing has caused a major upset at the ongoing Dallas Open by taking down top-seeded Taylor Fritz in their semifinal match 6(3)-7,7-5,6-4. This historic win makes him the first Chinese player to reach an ATP final.
Fritz served well during the match, clocking 20 aces as opposed to Wu's 6, but it was not enough to dismiss the Chinese. Wu will now play fifth-seeded American John Isner in the finals on Sunday, February 12.
Wu was previously the World No. 1 on the ITF Junior Circuit after his triumph at the 2017 US Open boys' singles title. His win against Fritz marks his first win against an ATP top-10 player. After his win, Wu thanked the fans during his on-court interview and stated that he thought of playing his best instead of winning or losing.
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"When I’m playing tonight, I wasn’t thinking about the score or winning or losing. I’m just trying to perform my best,You guys are amazing, cheering for us every point. Thanks, guys," he said.
Tennis journalist Jose Morgado also took to Twitter to appreciate Wu's talent.
"HISTORIC. Former Junior #1 Wu Yibing is the first EVER Chinese to reach an ATP final, after beating Taylor Fritz 6-7(3), 7-5, 6-4 to reach the title match in Dallas. Incredible talent," he tweeted.
Taylor Fritz set to become the highest ranked US player in the ATP rankings since Mardy Fish
American No. 1 Taylor Fritz is set to reach No. 7 in the ATP rankings. Fritz, who is currently ranked 8th in the world, will jump a spot after the end of the Dallas Open. Fritz turned pro in 2015 and has always been viewed as a strong talent on the tour.
The last time an American was in the No. 7 spot was in 2011, a ranking held by Mardy Fish. Fritz, who was top-seeded at the Dallas Open, fell to China's Wu Yibing in three sets. The 25-year-old is now set to appear in the Delray Beach Open, an ATP 250 tournament.
The Delray Beach Open is currently holding qualifying matches with the main draw matches slated to begin on Monday, February 13. Taylor Fritz is set to play on Wednesday, February 15. The The Delray Beach Open will see other American players like Tommy Paul, Blake Shelton, Marcus Giron, J.J. Wolf, and Michael Mmoh in action.
