Guangzhou Open: Dart Wins Opener In China

Harriet Dart won her opening match of the Guangzhou Open as the Women’s Tennis Association resumed competition in China.

Compatriot Jodie Burrage was knocked out by Polish top seed Magda Linette.

The Guangzhou Open is the first WTA event since January 2020 to take place in China.

Covid-19 disruption of the tour was followed by a boycott over allegations made by Peng Shuai.

Former doubles world number one Peng said in November 2021 she was “forced” into a sexual relationship with former China vice-premier Zhang Gaoli.

As a result, the WTA suspended its end-of-year events in China.

The only proof of Peng’s safety from there investigation would make them return. 

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She later denied making the allegations though she has not been seen outside China since. Zhang has not commented publicly on the allegation.

In April 2023, the WTA announced it would resume tournaments in China having accepted an investigation into the sexual assault allegations will not be carried out by the Chinese government.

Meanwhile another game saw 19-year-old Diana Shnaider took down eighth-seeded American Claire Liu 6-1, 6-3 in the first round of the Guangzhou Open on Monday.

The Russian won six straight games in the first set and came back from a 2-0 hole in the second set to win in 75 minutes. She broke Liu’s serve six times in eight chances.

Also falling on the first day of the main draw was sixth seed Linda Fruhvirtova of the Czech Republic. Denmark’s Clara Tauson eliminated Fruhvirtova 6-2, 7-6 (6).

BBC Sports