Tennis sensation Chung Hyeon returns home to hero's welcome

INCHEON, Jan. 28 (Yonhap) -- South Korean tennis sensation Chung Hyeon returned home to a hero's welcome Sunday after his historic run at the Australian Open. Chung was greeted by hundreds of cheering fans at Incheon International Airport. The 21-year-old said he was surprised to see massive crowds. "I didn't know this many people would come," he said with a smile. "It looks like I really did something great." Chung, currently 58th in the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) rankings, defeated top-class tennis players to reach the semifinals of the Australian Open, becoming the first South Korean ever to reach the last four in a Grand Slam event. He withdrew from the semifinal against tennis legend Roger Federer due to blisters on his feet. His earlier opponents included six-time Australian Open winner Novak Djokovic and world No. 4 Alexander Zverev. "Before the tournament, I had a thought that I could do something big and I didn't know that day will come this fast," he said. "I hope South Korean tennis and many people can have confidence that they can also do it." In South Korea, Chung will focus on receiving treatments on his injured foot. Chung will later decide whether he should compete at an ATP Tour event in Bulgaria next month. "I think I have to go to the hospital tomorrow right away," he said. "I'm going to set my future scheduled after my medical checkup." With his latest achievement, Chung is certain to crack the top 30 of the ATP rankings and become highest ranked South Korean tennis player. Retired men's singles player Lee Hyung-taik achieved the highest-ranking by a South Korean player, No. 36, which he did in August 2007. Chung, however, said he is looking further. "I want to set my sights on the top 10 in the world rankings," he said. "I will aim high and move forward. I want to prove it." kdon@yna.co.kr (END)