Michael Zheng, a former Columbia University tennis player and native of Montville, New Jersey, has advanced to the third round of the US Open. Zheng secured his spot by defeating Yunchaokete Bu in a four-set match on Court 12 on September 3, 2026. The match was played in front of a vocal crowd, which Zheng described as having a "college tennis atmosphere."
Zheng's connection to the New York and New Jersey area has made him a notable figure during the tournament's early stages. His second-round match featured enthusiastic chants of "Let's Go Michael" from spectators, with some fans even watching from adjacent courts due to the crowd size.
"It's something I've played the last four years, so it's been amazing to see all of the alums, all my teammates turning an ATP match into a college tennis match, which is amazing," Zheng said, reflecting on the energetic environment. He noted that the atmosphere was perfectly suited to his experience playing collegiately.
Despite previous experience training at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, Queens, Zheng stated that his current performance "exceeded all expectations."
He is scheduled to face lucky loser Arthur Gea in the third round on Saturday. Zheng has found the tournament grounds familiar, having known them well from past visits. The support from his home region has contributed to his successful run in the tournament.