World number two Simona Halep stunned by China's Shuai Zhang

ByEurosport

Updated 19/01/2016 at 11:27 GMT

Shuai Zhang pulled off the second huge shock on Tuesday as she knocked out Simona Halep in the first round of the Australian Open.

The 26-year-old Zhang, ranked 133rd in the world, had never before won a match in a Grand Slam tournament, despite fairly regular appearances in main draws dating back as far as 2008.

But she produced an absolute sublime performance to stun the Romanian world number two with a 6-4 6-3 victory.

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Zhang was also reduced to tears after securing her first victory in a grand slam main singles draw at her 15th attempt, shrieking as she secured victory after 78 minutes.

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After Rafa Nadal's exit earlier in the day, it marked one of the most remarkable opening days at the tournament in years.

Romania's Simona Halep lost her first round match against China's Zhang Shuai at the Australian Open tennis tournament at Melbourne Park, Australia, January 19, 2016

Image credit: Eurosport

"I'm so excited and happy," Zhang said in a courtside interview.

"I want to thank my coach and parents and to everybody for supporting me. I think today is my best moment."

Zhang, who will turn 27 on Thursday, will face France's Alize Cornet in the second round at Melbourne Park.

Additional reporting via Reuters

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