Lucky loser Bu shocks 12th seed Jodar with triple‑bagel at US Open

Bu, a 124th‑ranked player from Xinjiang, entered the US Open as a lucky loser after Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis withdrew with an injury. In less than two hours he dispatched 12th seed Jodar 6‑2, 6‑1, 6‑1, delivering one of the most lopsided scores of this year's tournament.

From qualifier to champion

The win marks Bu’s first triumph at Grand Slam level after six previous attempts without a match win. He had spent most of 2026 on the Challenger circuit, picking up two titles on grass and reshaping his game from a clay‑heavy style to a more aggressive approach.

"If I have to win my first match like this, I'm okay with the loss five, six times before," he said.

Bu’s preparation on Tuesday morning was limited to a warm‑up session before a planned flight home. When the lucky‑loser spot opened, he seized the opportunity, saying he simply tried to enjoy the crowd and the court.

Implications for the draw

Bu now faces American Michael Zheng in the second round. Zheng, a two‑time US collegiate champion, will be looking to capitalize on the momentum of a home crowd.

For Jodar, the defeat is a sobering US Open debut. The 19‑year‑old, ranked 165th, admitted that his opponent simply played better on the day.

Bu’s ascent to a career‑high ranking of 64th later this year appears plausible if he can sustain this level. His admiration for British legend Andy Murray and Chinese pioneer Li Na underscores his ambition to become a role model for the next generation of Chinese players.

While a lucky‑loser victory is rare, it serves as a reminder that the margins at the top of tennis are thin, and opportunities can arise from the most unexpected circumstances.