Djokovic match-up? For China's Zhang, it's tops
China's Zhang Ze promised to watch and learn from Novak Djokovic after he registered one of the best wins of his career on Monday to set up an expected meeting with the world number one. Zhang, listed at 219 in the world, savoured a rare victory over a top-100 player as he upset Uzbekistan's 70th-ranked Denis Istomin 6-3, 1-6, 6-3 in the China Open first round. China's number one is used to hunting out video of the obscure opponents he comes up against on the second-tier Challenger Tour and qualifying tournaments. He will not have to look hard for footage of Djokovic, the 10-time Grand Slam-winner who is on a 24-match unbeaten streak in Beijing and should breeze past Simone Bolelli in round one on Monday. Nevertheless, the 25-year-old dutifully promised to study hard in his usual fashion before facing the Serbian great, and to enjoy the occasion in front of his home fans. "After I saw the draw, I knew that I would meet first a qualifier and then Novak. A lot of people say, 'Cheer up, I hope you can meet Novak'," Zhang said. "What I was focusing on was the first round. I'm really happy. I'll prepare for the next match. I know Novak is number one in the world. I will watch his videos and I will just enjoy this match." Zhang added: "I will try my best to prepare for the match. I will check his videos. Is he playing today or tomorrow? I will go to see his match tomorrow just to learn."
