Taiyuan: China’s Bu Yunchaokete secured a straight-set victory over Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round of the ATP 1000 Indian Wells Masters here on Wednesday. Bu, 23, competing at the event for the first time, edged past the 19-year-old local 7-5, 6-4 in a tightly contested match on center court.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Bu expressed both nervousness and excitement following his win, citing the significance of playing on the center court at Indian Wells. “I’m super nervous,” Bu admitted. “But I’m also super excited because it’s my first time in Indian Wells and I can play in the center court with the next generation.”

Bu, who is currently ranked No. 71, has set his sights on breaking into the world’s top 50 this season. He stated, “I just push myself and try to enjoy every day,” reflecting his determination to advance his career.

This victory at Indian Wells comes on the heels of Bu’s breakthrough performance at the 2023 Shanghai Masters, where he achieved his first Masters-level win. Looking ahead, Bu will face Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in the next round, who advanced after enjoying a bye in the first round.