WTA resumes tournaments in China this September after 16 months

The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has lifted its suspension of tournament operation in China and will resume tournaments within the region this September to support women's tennis. 

When Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai bravely came forward in 2021, the WTA took a stance and suspended its operation of events in China out of concern for her safety and the safety of our players and staff. "When we moved forward with this decision, we were not sure if others would join us. We received much praise for our principled stand and believe we sent a powerful message to the world. But praise alone is insufficient to bring about change," the statement read. 

After 16 months of suspended tennis competition in China and sustained efforts at achieving its original requests, the situation has shown no sign of changing. WTA then concluded that it will never fully secure those goals, and it will be WTA's players and tournaments who will be paying an extraordinary price for their sacrifices, according to the official statement. 

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For these reasons, the WTA is lifting its suspension of the operation of tournaments in China and will resume tournaments in China this September. With the suspension, it forfeited its ability to provide women in the region with opportunities to advance professionally through tennis and be role models for future generations. 

According to WTA, it has not been able to achieve everything it set out for, but it has been in touch with people close to Peng and is assured she is living safely with her family in Beijing. Furthermore, it also has received assurances that WTA players and staff operating in China will be safe and protected while in the country. 

"While we do not regret our decision on the suspension, the WTA and its members feel that now is the time to return to our mission in China. We are hopeful that by returning more progress can be made," WTA said in the statement.

"Peng cannot be forgotten through this process. It is important that our renewed engagement in China provides continued safety for Peng and all the women athletes who will benefit from our return to competition and the opportunities tennis provides. It is essential that women’s voices must be heard when speaking out. The WTA will continue to advocate for Peng and the advancement of women around the world," it added.

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