Chang fights back in Shanghai
Ivanisevic: Do not pass win, do not collect $48,000
Posted: Monday October 12, 1998 01:15 PM
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Michael Chang benefited from crowd support and unforced errors by Ivanisevic AP |
SHANGHAI, China (Reuters) -- Michael Chang, enjoying a revival after a run of injuries, claimed his second title in six weeks when he beat top seed Goran Ivanisevic 4-6, 6-1, 6-2 in the Shanghai Open final Monday.
The 26-year-old American was ruled out for nearly two months by knee and wrist injuries earlier this year and his world ranking has dropped from third at the start of 1998 to 33rd.
But he rediscovered his winning touch after more than a year without a tournament victory when he took the MFS Pro Championship title in Brookline, Massachusetts, at the end of August.
Monday's victory over Ivanisevic brought second-seed Chang his 33rd ATP Tour title and a record 12th Asian crown.
Chang, wildly popular in China, benefited from the roaring support of the crowd as well as a slew of unforced errors from an opponent ranked 12th in the world to carry off the US$48,200 winner's prize.
"It was like a home-court advantage. I was also able to use my forehand shots to keep Goran off balance," Chang said.
"It's a very special feeling to win in Asia. The support I get from people, I feel a great sense of warmth and love from people here.
"They can relate to me, to be able to see a Chinese person doing so well in a sport dominated by so many races makes them and me feel good."
The final was postponed from Sunday because of heavy rain but the skies cleared just enough to allow play to resume on Monday.
After dropping the first set Chang charged back to win 12 of the last 15 games.
"It felt great today," he said. But he added that he still needed to work on regaining full health.
Ivanisevic, who struggled with his serve and backhand, was clearly disappointed.
"The way I played today maybe I should go to jail," the big Croatian joked, after he served eight double faults and landed only 48 percent of his first serves.
Both players will compete in this week's Singapore Open.
Copyright 2003 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.
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