WILLY Chan Lee's first encounter with world-class opposition, predictably, ended in defeat last night, but the Hong Kong youngster did enough to suggest that such meetings would become more frequent in the future.
Chan was beaten 6-3, 6-1 by Frenchwoman Mary Pierce, who, at world number five, is ranked a dizzying 500-odd places above the local 17-year-old.
But for many instances in the First Pacific Bank Challenge game at Victoria Park, the yawning gap was not apparent - a possible combination of Pierce in a relaxed mood within the exhibition atmosphere and Chan determined not to crumble against illustrious company.
For Chan, who led 3-1 via two service breaks in the first set, it was a valuable lesson and she is hoping to apply the experience gained in the future.
'I'm happy with the way I played,' she said. 'I think I played really good, but Mary was just too good for me.
'She hits the ball very hard and I don't think I've ever played someone who hits it that hard before.' Pierce heaped praised on Chan, who she feels must add more power to her serve to be able to compete at a high level.
'I thought she played a really good match,' said Pierce. 'I was actually surprised at how she handled the pace.