
ZHUHAI, Oct. 17 -- The organizing committee of Hengqin Life WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai announced here on Thursday that World No.36 Zheng Saisai has gained the only wild card for women's singles. This is the second time Zheng has participated in the tournament since 2015.
Zheng has had a breakthrough season including finishing as runner-up in the women's doubles with partner Duan Yingying at this year's Tianjin Open.
At this year's San Jose Open, Zheng captured her first WTA title by defeating world number 10 and No.2 seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus in straight sets in the final. With this victory, the 25-year-old player not only returned to world No. 38 but also became the second Chinese player to win the championship after Li Na. At this year's China Open, she stunned American 13th seed Sloane Stephens in straight sets, 6-3, 6-1 in the round of 32.
"I think all the players of the new generation are making unremitting efforts to catch up with those top players, but we still need time," said Zheng.
According to the organizer, the complete name list of women's singles players will be released in a few days. The prize pot of this year's match has jumped to 2.42 million U.S. dollars and the champion will get 700 WTA ranking points.
Fire brigade in Shanghai holds group wedding
Tourists enjoy ice sculptures in Datan Town, north China
Sunset scenery of Dayan Pagoda in Xi'an
Tourists have fun at scenic spot in Nanlong Town, NW China
Harbin attracts tourists by making best use of ice in winter
In pics: FIS Alpine Ski Women's World Cup Slalom
Black-necked cranes rest at reservoir in Lhunzhub County, Lhasa
China's FAST telescope will be available to foreign scientists in April
"She power" plays indispensable role in poverty alleviation
Top 10 world news events of People's Daily in 2020
Top 10 China news events of People's Daily in 2020
Top 10 media buzzwords of 2020
Year-ender:10 major tourism stories of 2020
No interference in Venezuelan issues
Biz prepares for trade spat
Broadcasting Continent
Australia wins Chinese CEOs as US loses