2024 Wuhan Open kicks off

The 2024 Wuhan Open's opening ceremony was held on Oct 7 at the Optics Valley International Tennis Center in the Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China or OVC).

Hubei tennis player Zheng Qinwen made an appearance, igniting the enthusiastic crowd and taking the "Wuhan Open Fever" to new heights.

Zheng Qinwen makes an appearance at the opening ceremony. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

Returning as a local player, Zheng was excited and expressed high expectations for the upcoming competition. As the 5th seed player, Zheng received a bye in the first round, and her next opponent will be the winner between Camila Osorio and Jaqueline Adina Cristian.

"This will be my first time participating in the Wuhan Open's main competition. I hope everyone can come and cheer for me. See you at the Wuhan Open!" Zheng said to her hometown fans upon arriving in Wuhan on Oct 6.

On Oct 8, Zheng will treat the fans to a tennis extravaganza at the Wuhan Open.

Chinese player Yuan Yue made her debut On Oct 7 at center court. Facing the 56th-ranked French player Clara Burel, Yuan fought through three rounds, ultimately winning the match 1-6, 6-4, and 6-2.

Emma Navarro makes her debut at the Wuhan Open press conference. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

On the afternoon of Oct 7, Emma Navarro debuted at the Wuhan Open press conference. Excited about her first time in Wuhan, she aims to perform well and secure a spot in the year-end finals.

"The facilities, courts, and hotels here are all very good. I can feel the people's friendliness and warmth towards us", said Navarro, speaking highly of Wuhan.