Wu Di: China's first man in Grand Slam loses opening match
The 21-year-old world number 186, who qualified via a wildcard tournament in Nanjing, fought back from a set down before the Croatian prevailed 7-5, 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in 3hrs 14min at Melbourne Park.
- Agence France-Presse
- Updated: January 15, 2013 02:25 PM IST
Wu Di was ousted in four sets by Ivan Dodig at the Australian Open on Tuesday after making history as the first Chinese man to play a Grand Slam match.
The 21-year-old world number 186, who qualified via a wildcard tournament in Nanjing, fought back from a set down before the Croatian prevailed 7-5, 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in 3hrs 14min at Melbourne Park.
Wu saved two match points before a mistimed forehand gave Dodig the victory in front of a sparse crowd on Court 8 at Melbourne Park.
China's top-ranked player produced a superb second set against the world number 74 but 53 unforced errors hindered his cause.
Wu admitted before the match that he was nervous about the historic occasion. China's female former French Open champion, Li Na, had congratulated him on reaching the main draw and wished him luck.
Dodig capitalised on his opportunities, hitting 50 winners to 35 from Wu in front of about 100 spectators. Afterwards, Wu signed autographs for a group of fans waiting at the court.