#NextGenATP Sensations Shang and Tien Achieve Upset Victories in Shanghai
Shang, just 20, has become the youngest Chinese man to reach the third round in Shanghai’s tournament history.
October 04, 2025
Rolex Shanghai Masters
Shang Juncheng marks his debut ATP Masters 1000 third round on home turf in Shanghai.
By ATP Staff
In a thrilling showdown at the Rolex Shanghai Masters, China’s very own Shang Juncheng pulled off a remarkable victory over the talented Karen Khachanov. With a score of 7-6(3), 6-3, he celebrated a landmark win against a Top 10 opponent, stepping into the third round of an ATP Masters 1000 event for the very first time.
“It was an unforgettable match against Karen, a truly formidable Top 10 player,” shared the exuberant 20-year-old #NextGenATP star, who showcased impressive composure by converting all three of his break point opportunities, according to Infosys ATP Stats. “I entered the match with a clear mind, eager to entertain the fans. Although my start wasn’t perfect, I maintained my focus and delivered my best on every point. It was all about enjoying the game, regardless of the outcome.”
“I’m thrilled with the victory, but even more content with how I played overall.”
Shang proudly stands as the youngest among three Chinese players to have reached the third round in Shanghai, an achievement that has occurred since 2023. Previously, Zhang Zhizhen made it to this round, followed by Wu Yibing in 2024. Remarkably, Shang is also just the second Chinese player to secure a Top 10 victory on home territory, following Buyunchaokete’s triumph over Andrey Rublev last year in Beijing.
The match saw both players exchanging breaks in the tension-filled opening set. As the second set unfolded, Shang unleashed a flurry of impressive winners, clinching the last three games from a 3-3 tie and powering through the match’s final six points.
“The key was not overthinking,” Shang remarked, recalling the support from his family in attendance, including his grandmother. “Overthinking can lead to tension. I reminded myself it was time to focus and get the job done.”
“Against elite competitors like Karen, opportunities to close out a match are rare. Missing one could have turned it into a real struggle in the final set. Thankfully, I stayed focused, and everything fell into place.”
An unforgettable moment ✨
Jerry Shang captures his first Top 10 win after an impressive 7-6(3) 6-3 victory over Kachanov.@SH_RolexMasters | #RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/TsROdYNb9j
— ATP Tour (@atptour) October 4, 2025
Another rising star, learner Tien, is quickly gaining a reputation as the “Comeback Kid” on the ATP Tour.
The 19-year-old American showcased his resilience once again, rallying from a set down for the second consecutive day to overcome No. 33 seed Corentin Moutet, triumphing with scores of 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 to move into the tournament’s third round.
In his first-round match, Tien pulled off a similar feat against Miomir Kecmanovic, winning 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in his tournament debut. A day later, he fought back from two breaks down in the second set and a break in the third to best the French left-hander.
“I’m really pleased with that victory,” Tien reflected, looking ahead to his next opponent, No. 30 seed Cameron Norrie, in the third round. “Things looked bleak for a moment, especially in the second set. But I kept my spirits up. There were chances in my return games that I believed I should’ve capitalized on. Staying level-headed was crucial, and I maintained faith that I could turn it around.”
Building on his momentum from the previous tournament in Beijing—where he reached his first ATP Tour final—Tien has now completed four consecutive wins after losing the first set. Notably, he advanced past No. 9 Lorenzo Musetti, who had to retire due to a thigh injury at 0-3 in the third set, and also overcame World No. 18 Daniil Medvedev, who similarly retired while down 0-4 in the final set. Tien also staged a comeback against No. 21 Francisco Cerundolo in the first round.
Ending last season ranked No. 122 in the PIF ATP Rankings, Tien capped it off with a runner-up finish at the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah. He kicked off the ATP Tour Asian swing ranked No. 54 and has since ascended to No. 37 following quarter-final appearances in Hangzhou and a final in Beijing.
With a season record of 25-20, including an impressive 5-3 against Top 10 opponents, Tien’s training has been significantly influenced by former World No. 2 Michael Chang.
“His guidance has been invaluable,” Tien praised, referring to the International Tennis Hall of Fame member. “With my limited experience, having someone of his caliber around to offer insight makes a tremendous difference.”
