ATP and WTA cancel 2020 China tournament swing due to coronavirus

The pandemic has affected various sporting events around the globe.

The ATP and WTA have cancelled the 2020 China tournament swing, following a Chinese government directive relating to sporting events in continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The directive, issued earlier this month by the General Administration of Sport in China, mandates that no international sporting events will proceed in China for the remainder of the year. As a result, the Rolex Shanghai Masters, Asia’s only ATP Masters 1000 tournament, the China Open in Beijing, an ATP 500 event, as well as the Chengdu Open and Zhuhai Championships, ATP 250 events, will not take place in 2020.

"Our approach throughout this pandemic has been to always follow local guidance when staging events. We respect the Chinese government’s decision to do what’s best for the country in response to the unprecedented global situation," said ATP Chairman, Andrea Gaudenzi.

"It’s with a heavy heart that we announce ATP tournaments will not be played in China this year. 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."

WTA events such as China Open (Beijing), Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open, Jiangxi Open (Nanchang), Zhengzhou Open, Shiseido WTA Finals Shenzhen, Hengqin Life WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai and Guangzhou Open have also been cancelled.

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 a 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."

Simon added, "We would like to acknowledge the significant efforts made by our tournaments in the region throughout this process along with the Chinese Tennis Association for their dedication and commitment to the WTA. We share in the disappointment of many around the world who were looking forward to this swing and appreciate all of the continued support from our fans, partners and the entire region, as we continue to navigate the remainder of the 2020 season."

The ATP and WTA remain committed to moving forward with the return to play plan which provides for operating as many tournaments and providing as many playing opportunities as possible this season.