24 July 2020

ATP and WTA cancel events in China including the WTA Finals

The ATP and WTA have cancelled the remaining tennis events in China due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

A total of 11 events have been called off after China's General Administration of Sport said they were not allowing any international sporting events to go ahead for the rest of 2020. 

Seven events on the WTA Tour, including the November Finals in Shenzhen will not take place.

Other events hit are the China Open, Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, Jiangxi Open, Zhengzhou Open, Hengqin Life WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai and the Guangzhou Open.

The most high-profile event on the ATP Tour to be called off is the Shanghai Masters. 

The Masters 1000 tournament, the China Open, an ATP 500 event, Chengdu Open, Zhuhai Championships and ATP 250 events will also not take place.

WTA chairman and CEO Steve Simon said: "We are extremely disappointed that our world-class events in China will not take place this year. 

“Unfortunately, this decision also includes the cancellation of the Shiseido WTA Finals Shenzhen and as result, the corresponding Porsche Race to Shenzhen. 

"We do however respect the decision that has been made and are eager to return to China as soon as possible next season.”

ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi added: "We respect the Chinese government's decision to do what's best for the country in response to the unprecedented global situation.

"These important events have been a cornerstone of the Tour's presence in Asia and I want to thank the organizers for their commitment and cooperation. 

“Chinese fans are some of the most passionate in the world and I know players will be looking forward to the next opportunity to play in front of them.”

The WTA Tour is set to resume on August 3 with the Palermo Open, while the ATP Tour will return from 20 August with the Cincinnati Open.

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