Simona Halep, world No2, knocked out of Australian Open by Zhang Shuai
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Halep loses 6-4, 6-3 to Chinese ranked world No133
First victory for Zhang Shuai at a grand slam in 15 attempts
First victory for Zhang Shuai at a grand slam in 15 attempts
The world No2 Simona Halep was knocked out onday two of the Australian Open by the Chinese qualifier Zhang Shuai. The inspired world No133 won 6-4, 6-3.
The 24-year-old Romanian, who came to Melbourne nursing an achilles injury and suffering from a cold, left the Margaret Court Arena in tears after the first-round upset.
Zhang was also reduced to tears after securing her first victory in a grand slam main singles draw at her 15th attempt, shrieking as she secured victory after 78 minutes.
“I’m so excited and happy,” Zhang said. “I want to thank my coach and parents and to everybody for supporting me. I think today is my best moment.“
Zhang, who is 27 on Thursday, will face France’s Alizé Cornet in the second round.
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