When it comes to Asian tennis a lot of the focus is placed upon Japan’s Kei Nishikori, but there is a rising star positioned to follow in his footsteps.
Tseng Chun-hsin is a name that many may be unfamiliar with, but he has already achieved a series of milestones at the age of 16. Within the first six months of 2018, he had claimed the French Open boys title, won his first two trophies as a professional on the Futures circuit and made his Davis Cup debut. On Sunday he added to his already impressive resume. Defeating local favourite Jack Draper 6-1, 6-7(2), 6-4, to win the Wimbledon title after more than two hours of play.
“I think the first (set) I was playing, I was enjoying the tennis and playing relaxed.” Tseng said about his performance.
“Second set I had some chance to break his serve, but I didn’t make it.”
“I just focus on every match, to enjoy my tennis and play my best tennis on the court.” He added.
The Taiwan player has blossomed under the guidance of his family. Growing up his father worked as a vendor at a local market as well as a part-time tennis coach. Whilst at the same time overseeing the development of his son on the tour.
“I think my family is always the biggest support to my tennis.” He said. “My father is also my coach since the beginning until now. I think I really have to thank them to helping me on this road and always supporting me.”
There is one player who Tseng models his entire game on and it is not Roger Federer. Despite the fact he shares the same birthday as the 20-time champion. For him, Nishikori is his ultimate inspiration. A player who he is yet to practice with, but remembers once asking for a photo to be taken with him four years ago.
“My favorite idol is Kei Nishikori because I think he’s the best.” He said of the former US Open finalist. “I think I play similar like him, so I want to be the same like him.”
Obviously Nishikori isn’t the only player from that continent to have excelled in tennis. There is also former Australian Open champion Li Na, who is credited for reviving China’s interest in the sport. Michael Chang, who reached a high of No.2 in the world, also had Taiwan heritage.
“I think because of their results, they can help the Asia players have more confidence and more motivation. To just to want to be like them.” Tseng explained.
Targeting a step onto the professional tour in 2019, Tseng has already made positive waves. Winning 17 out of 21 matches on the professional circuit so far this year. He is also No.1 on the junior tour and has now reached the final of the first three grand slam tournaments this season.
