Coleman Wong, the 21-year-old from Hong Kong ranked world No. 173, made history at the US Open by becoming the first player from his region in the Open Era to win a Grand Slam men's singles main draw match. In his debut, Wong defeated local favorite Aleksandar Kovacevic (No. 71) in straight sets, 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7-4), advancing to the second round.
Wong's dominant serve powered the victory, with 22 aces compared to Kovacevic's fewer efforts. The first set was clinched 6-4 after breaking in the 10th game. The second saw Wong lead 4-1 before Kovacevic tied at 4-4; Wong held firm, breaking again for 7-5. The third went to a tiebreak, which Wong won 7-4 amid crowd cheers in Cantonese, giving him a home-like boost.
This win avenges a March loss to Kovacevic and follows Wong's qualifying triumphs over Chris Rodesch, Matteo Gigante, and Billy Harris. The US Open site celebrated him as Hong Kong's first Grand Slam main draw winner. He earns at least $154,000 (about HK$1.2 million).
Next, Wong faces Australia's Jordan Thompson (No. 85), who upset No. 22 Sebastian Korda. They met earlier this year in Miami, where Wong lost in three sets. With momentum building, Wong aims to extend his remarkable run.