Two rising stars of Chinese tennis, Zheng Qinwen (World No. 24) and Yuan Yue (World No. 42), scored automatic passes through the China Open's first round thanks to their seeded status. The Beijing tournament’s draw revealed fierce competition ahead as players gear up for Wednesday’s start.
Tournament Kickoff: Home Advantage
Zheng, China’s top-ranked player and fifth seed, could face a gauntlet of powerhouses like Russia’s Daria Kasatkina and Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska. Meanwhile, Yuan’s path includes clashes with Czech champion Barbora Krejcikova and Belgian ace Elise Mertens. Both share the same half of the bracket as World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka, setting up potential semifinal fireworks.
Local Players to Watch
Fans will cheer for six other Chinese players, including Wang Yafan and teen sensation Wang Xiyu, who landed in Sabalenka’s and Jasmine Paolini’s sections. American stars Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula headline the opposite bracket, with China’s Wang Xinyu aiming to disrupt Pegula’s campaign.
Notable Absences
Defending champ Iga Swiatek and World No. 4 Elena Rybakina withdrew, leaving the field wide open. Last year’s runner-up Liudmila Samsonova returns, hungry for redemption.
The WTA 1000 event runs through October 6, with matches streamed globally. Will this be China’s breakthrough moment?
Reference(s):
Home players Zheng Qinwen, Yuan Yue get first-round byes at China Open
cgtn.com