Zhuhai set to welcome global greats

Peng's late-season form was highlighted by a string of impressive performances during the China swing of the season.

She defeated Czech two-time Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova in the opening round of Wuhan Open and then reached the third round of the China Open in Beijing.

Next came a deep run in Tianjin that was ended by Maria Sharapova in the semifinals - a prelude to the Russian star's first title since returning from a 15-month doping suspension earlier this year.

The Zhuhai tournament offered the only wildcard to two other local players, Zheng Saisai and Zhang Shuai, in 2015 and 2016.

Tournament director Jose Miguel Garcia is confident the action in Zhuhai will be appealing to fans.

"After an amazing season of women's tennis, all the players that have gained their spot to play in Zhuhai are among the best players in the world. Great tennis is guaranteed for all the fans coming to Zhuhai and everyone following from home all over the world," Garcia said.

To make sure players have the best possible facilities at their disposal, event organizers have repaired damage to the venue's central court caused by a devastating typhoon in September.

In addition to the roof-covered 5,000-seat central court, the tennis center also features four show courts and 12 practice courts in the Hengqin New Area, one bridge away from Macao.

sunxiaochen@chinadaily.com.cn