Coleman Wong Chak-lam has etched his name in Hong Kong sports history by becoming the first player from the city to enter the main draw of the US Open in the modern era. The 21-year-old tennis sensation achieved this milestone after a commanding victory over Britain’s Billy Harris, winning in straight sets 6-3, 6-4 during the final qualifying round. This landmark win has not only elevated Wong’s personal career but has also reignited Hong Kong’s presence in the global tennis arena.
Wong’s journey to the US Open main draw is a significant breakthrough for Hong Kong tennis, marking the first time since 1947 that a player from the city has featured in the men’s singles main event at this Grand Slam. The last competitors to make such appearances were Ip Koon Hung and Edward Tsai in the early 1950s. Wong’s success signals a fresh chapter for Hong Kong athletes competing at the highest level on the international stage.
Ranked 174th in the world, Wong is poised to face formidable American opponent Aleksandar Kovacevic, currently ranked 71st, in the first round of the tournament. Despite the challenge, Wong remains focused and determined: “I know I have the level, and I know I just need to be calm and to play my game. I’m in the main draw and I want to go for more,” he shared following his historic qualification.
This milestone also represents a major financial achievement for Wong, who has already earned career prize money totaling approximately US$590,724. By qualifying for the main draw alone, he stands to secure a US$110,000 paycheck — the largest prize of his career to date. Should he advance further, potential matchups loom with higher-ranked players including No. 22 seed Ugo Humbert, Australia’s Adam Walton, and possibly last year’s Hong Kong Open champion, Andrey Rublev.
Wong’s rise is underpinned by his past success, including a boys’ doubles championship win at the US Open in 2021, demonstrating his capability on American courts. His journey symbolizes not just personal ambition but the growing potential of Hong Kong tennis on the world stage.
As the tournament unfolds, the eyes of Hong Kong and tennis fans alike will be watching Coleman Wong’s next steps. His historic entry into the US Open’s main draw embodies breaking barriers and making waves, inspiring a new generation from the city to pursue excellence in a sport where Hong Kong has long sought greater recognition.
Through perseverance and talent, Coleman Wong is redefining what’s possible for athletes from his city — and proudly carrying Hong Kong’s flag onto the global tennis stage once again.
