In an electrifying second-round match at the Australian Open in Melbourne, Zhang Zhizhen of the Chinese mainland and Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the German duo Jakob Schnaitter and Mark Wallner 5-7, 6-4, 6-4.
After dropping the first set, Zhang and Machac showcased their resilience by securing two consecutive sets. The match was intensely competitive, featuring only three breaks of serve throughout. Despite winning just three more points than their opponents, Zhang and Machac's ability to dominate shorter points proved decisive.
Out of 103 points played by Zhang and Machac, a staggering 83 were won in four or fewer shots, including 35 out of 42 in the final set. Their opponents struggled to maintain momentum, winning only 19 short points in the deciding set compared to 30 in the opener.
Key moments included Machac serving for the match at 5-4, where Schnaitter and Wallner had two break point opportunities. Both were skillfully saved by Zhang's volley winners. Later, at deuce, Zhang's strategic play set up a crucial match point, which Machac clinched with an ace.
The pair also demonstrated their clutch performance earlier by saving two break points while Zhang served for the second set, ultimately converting a set point with a powerful forehand winner.
Looking ahead, Zhang and Machac are set to face the 15th seeds Hugo Nys of Monaco and Edouard Roger-Vasselin of France in the round of 16, aiming to advance further in the tournament.
Reference(s):
Zhang & Machac rally to advance in men's doubles at Australian Open
cgtn.com
