College Tennis Phenom Michael Zheng Upsets Sebastian Korda at Australian Open
Michael Zheng has garnered attention at the Australian Open by upsetting American player Sebastian Korda in the first round. The match took place in Melbourne, where Zheng showcased exceptional skill and poise, winning in five sets: 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(0), 6-3.
Michael Zheng: College Tennis Phenom
Zheng, a senior at Columbia University, is pursuing a psychology degree while also holding two NCAA championships. His success at the Australian Open follows a strong qualifying performance, where he won three matches to secure his main draw spot.
The Match Against Korda
- Match Duration: Five sets
- Set Scores: 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(0), 6-3
- Korda’s Performance: Struggled initially; regained momentum but ultimately lost
- Zheng’s Key Strategy: Maintained composure and exploited Korda’s errors
Throughout the match, Zheng utilized solid baseline play and aggressive shot-making to build a two-set lead. He faced pressure in the fourth set but managed to close out the match decisively in the fifth.
Coaching Support and Leadership
Howard Endelman, Zheng’s college coach, provided encouragement from afar, watching the match from over 10,000 miles away. His praise reflects the hard work Zheng dedicated to his sport.
Comparative Achievements in College Tennis
Zheng is not alone in making an impact at major tournaments as a college player. In 2023, another collegiate standout, Ben Shelton, reached the quarterfinals in his debut at the Australian Open. Zheng elaborated on how NCAA competitions have prepared him for such high-stakes moments, attributing part of his success to representing his college.
Zheng’s Background and Future Prospects
Growing up in northern New Jersey, Zheng’s journey to tennis stardom is notable. Standing at just over six feet tall, he presents a contrasting physique to other players, focusing on strategic play instead of sheer power. He intends to finish his degree before considering a full-time professional career.
Next Steps at the Australian Open
Following his victory over Korda, Zheng is set to compete against Corentin Moutet of France. Success in this tournament could impact his decision on turning professional, especially considering the substantial earnings from recent performances.
Columbia Tennis: A Program on the Rise
Columbia’s men’s tennis program, ranked No. 10 by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association, has seen a resurgence under Head Coach Howard Endelman. Since his arrival in 2010, the program has achieved significant success, reaching multiple Elite Eight finishes.
As the team prepares to face formidable opponents, the contributions of players like Zheng will be critical. He embodies the dedication and talent present in collegiate tennis today, indicating a bright future ahead.
