Coleman Wong Chak-lam, Hong Kong's tennis sensation, is set to compete at the National Games, adding another chapter to his already impressive year. Wong has experienced a year of significant firsts, becoming the first Hongkonger to win an ATP Masters 1000 match and reach the third round of a Grand Slam tournament. Now, he has a chance to add a National Games medal to his list of accomplishments.
The 15th National Games, a quadrennial multi-sport event considered China's highest level of competition, will be held from November 9 to 21, 2025, across Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. Hong Kong will host eight competition events including basketball (men U22), track cycling, fencing, golf, handball (men), rugby sevens, triathlon, and beach volleyball. Tennis, however, will be held in Hengqin.
Wong's potential path to a medal may be aided by the challenges faced by some of mainland China's top players. Several have struggled with injuries, impacting their rankings and consistency throughout the season. Jerry Shang Juncheng, formerly ranked world No. 48, has fallen to 218, placing him below Wong. Bu Yunchaokete is currently the highest-ranked Chinese player at 115, followed by Wu Yibing at 175, who has also battled injuries and previously lost to Wong.
Born in Hong Kong on June 6, 2004, Wong began playing tennis at age five. With supportive parents who encouraged his athletic aspirations, Wong quickly progressed through the Hong Kong junior ranks. He earned a spot at a Wimbledon warm-up event at 13 and won the Orange Bowl International U-14s junior singles in 2018, joining a prestigious list of past winners.
Wong acknowledges the importance of local support in his career. He recently stated that competing in UTS (Ultimate Tennis Showdown) in Hong Kong would be a career-defining moment, fueled by the backing of local fans. He looks forward to showcasing Hong Kong's tennis potential on the world stage.
Off the court, Wong's profile continues to rise. He recently attended the opening ceremony of the "Artletics" exhibition in Macau, a dual exhibition that blends art and sports in anticipation of the National Games.
As the National Games approach, Coleman Wong carries the hopes of Hong Kong tennis fans, eager to see him achieve another "first" and potentially secure a historic medal.
