Newly crowned Wuxi Open winner Bu sets sights on French Open

WUXI, China - China's rising tennis star Bu Yunchaokete is looking forward to this year's French Open after he lifted the ATP Challenger Tour title on home soil on Sunday.

"I finally put an end to my foot problem which has been bothering m since late last year," said Bu.

"I am filled with energy in May and I will take this to Paris," he said.

Accompanied by the loud cheers of his home fans, Bu Yunchaokete claimed the Wuxi Open title in Wuxi, Jiangsu province.

Playing in front of nearly 4,000 spectators, the 22-year-old defeated Egor Gerasimov of Belarus 6-4, 6-1 in just 88 minutes. This victory marks his first ATP Challenger Tour title on Chinese soil and establishes him as the youngest Chinese player to win multiple ATP Challenger Tour titles.

The win has propelled Bu back into the top 200 of the ATP Rankings, essentially guaranteeing him spots in the upcoming Wimbledon and US Open qualifiers.

"I just tried to play my best tennis and enjoy it on the court, especially at home with full stands," said Bu after the game. "I really feel happy inside. I think this is the best way to win a title at home."

Last year, Bu won his first ATP Challenger Tour trophy in Seoul and later reached a career-high ranking of world No. 164. The Xinjiang native had suffered a foot injury, playing just two tournaments in as many months, but his recent performance signals a strong return to form.

"I think I've done well in the past few weeks and months, and I feel really good and more confidence coming," Bu said, noting that he is optimistic about his future and aims to break into the world top 130.

"Whether it's now or in the future, I believe I can reach wherever I want to go," he said.