Holger Rune, seeded 13th, edged past China’s Zhizhen Zhang in a gripping five-set match to advance to the second round of the Australian Open.
The 21-year-old Dane triumphed 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 after three hours and 10 minutes on Margaret Court Arena on Tuesday.
Rune fired 62 winners and sealed victory by breaking Zhang in the final game.
Despite early nerves and sweltering conditions, Rune was pleased with the extended court time, citing it as vital for finding rhythm after limited match preparation.
The former world number four now faces Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in the second round.
