Eudice Chong Makes History at Hong Kong Tennis Open

Hong Kong: Eudice Chong made history at the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open by becoming the first local player to win a WTA main-draw match since 2014. Chong achieved this milestone by defeating Suzan Lamens 6-3, 6-4 in the first round, showcasing her skills and determination.

Chong’s victory gives hope to Hong Kong tennis fans, as she is the first homegrown player to advance in the tournament since Suzie Holm reached the second round in 1980. “I played more aggressively today than previously, and I think that was a big factor in the win,” Chong said after the match.

Meanwhile, fellow player Alexandra Eala faced a tough situation on the court. After a competitive start against 2024 runner-up Katie Boulter, Boulter had to retire due to a left leg injury, leaving Eala to win the match 6-4, 2-1. Eala expressed her gratitude for the warm support from fans, highlighting her emotional connection to her performance in Hong Kong.

The atmosphere at Victoria Park Tennis Stadium was electric, as a large crowd of Filipino fans, Eala’s supporters, rallied behind her. “I feel so at home and I feel so much love,” Eala stated, reflecting on her return to play in Hong Kong after years.

Next, Eala is set to face No. 3 seed Victoria Mboko in a highly anticipated matchup. The two players previously met in the juniors, where Eala triumphed at the 2022 US Open girls’ semifinals.

Chong will continue her campaign against qualifier Himeno Sakatsume in the next round. A win would allow her to become the first Hongkonger to reach a tour-level quarterfinal since Tang Min in 1995.

Chong, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 213 in 2022, is currently ranked No. 632. She credited her recent performance to the growing support for tennis in Hong Kong and expressed her hopes for the sport’s future in the region.