Sabalenka to Defend Wuhan Title After Brief Layoff, While Zheng Withdraws

World number one Aryna Sabalenka is set to defend her Wuhan Open title next week following a short injury layoff, while local favourite Zheng Qinwen has withdrawn from the tournament.

Sabalenka, the 27-year-old Belarusian, claimed her fourth Grand Slam crown at the US Open last month but missed this week’s China Open in Beijing due to what she described as a minor injury.

She is expected to return to action for the WTA 1000 event in Wuhan, where she is the reigning champion and a three-time winner.

The main draw begins on Monday, featuring top seeds including Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, who is scheduled to play her semi-final in Beijing on Saturday.

In a blow to the tournament and local supporters, Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen pulled out on Friday after recently recovering from elbow surgery.

The Chinese world number nine, who regards Wuhan as her hometown, retired from her last-32 match at the China Open on Monday.

Zheng shared her decision in a video statement:

“Unfortunately, my body has not returned to its best condition.
After discussing with doctors and my team, I regretfully and unfortunately withdrew from this year’s Wuhan Open.
I am very grateful for the support from all tennis fans, especially those from my hometown.”

With Sabalenka returning and Zheng absent, the Wuhan Open promises intense competition, while fans will eagerly watch to see whether Sabalenka can defend her title successfully against a field of elite international players.

This edition of the Wuhan Open is shaping up as a highly competitive event, with Sabalenka aiming for her fourth title in the city and fans anticipating a showcase of top-tier women’s tennis.