22-year-old Wang Xiyu won her first WTA title Saturday as she defeated Magda Linette 6-0, 6-2 in the final of the Guangzhou Open, the first Chinese elite women's tournament to take place since the WTA suspended competitions in the country over fears around player Peng Shuai's safety.
No tournaments have been played in the country since before the pandemic. In 2021, former world double no. 1 Peng Shuai shared on social media that she had been sexually assaulted by former vice premier of China Zhang Gaoli. The post was quickly deleted and Peng subsequently disappeared from social media, sparking international concern over her whereabouts and wellbeing. "Where is Peng Shuai?" became a popular hashtag.
The now 37-year-old recanted her accusations and made a few controlled appearances but has apparently not been seen publicly since the Beijing Olympics in February 2022. The WTA pulled Chinese events from its schedule in December 2021, saying it would return only if a representative could meet with Peng, and if her claims were thoroughly and transparently investigated.
Neither condition has been met, but nevertheless the WTA announced in April of this year that tournaments would once again be held in China. The Associated Press quotes WTA Chairman and CEO Steve Simon as saying that "what has changed with it is that we have received assurances from people who are close to her, that we've been in contact with, that she is safe and living with her family in Beijing... First and foremost, her safety is the priority, and we do have assurances that is the case."
In prior years, the WTA hosted around ten women's tournaments annually in China, reportedly generating "eight-figure" revenues.
Wang, who entered the tournament ranked no. 88, is the third Chinese champion this season after Zhu Lin (Hua Hin) and Zheng Qinwen (Palermo) — China's best singles record since 2006. Wang is also the fifth Chinese national to win the Guangzhou open after Wang Qiang (2018), Zhang Shuai (2013 and 2017), Yan Zi (2005), and Li Na (2004).
"It was very exciting, and a very emotional moment, because in this tournament, every player is tough," said Wang on court. "It's so difficult to be here on the last day. I'm very happy to be here and I think I cannot say it because it's very emotional."
"I wanted a title from the first day, even when I started tennis. It was really a dream for me. I think there is going to be bigger tournaments, tougher matches waiting for me, and I'm just trying my best like I did this week."
