
A Women’s singles and doubles competition offering $USD 2.15 million in prize money, the WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai will be staged in southern China for the next five years.
The tournament will be played at the custom designed, state-of-the-art tennis center in Zhuhai and will feature a singles field consisting of players ranked No.9 through 19 in the world, along with one wildcard. The singles competition will feature 12 players competing in a four-group round-robin showcase with the winners of each respective group advancing to a single-elimination stage of the event. The winner of the singles event will receive 700 WTA ranking points
The six-team doubles field will compete in a two-group round robin schedule with the winner of each group advancing to the final.
“It is with great excitement that we announce the appointment of Li Na as our Tournament Ambassador,” said Tournament Director Peter Johnston. “Li Na has been an incredible champion throughout her career and she has represented her country magnificently both on and off the court. Now as she transitions to the next phase of her career, we are so fortunate to have her as part of our event. Li Na recognized the quality of the event and also the dramatic growth of the city of Zhuhai and its plans for the future and that is why she has welcomed the opportunity to become part of our event.”
“We are thrilled to have the great Li Na serve as a tournament ambassador at the WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai,” said Micky Lawler, WTA President. “She has inspired so many young girls around the world and we will feel the impact of her contributions for many decades to come. The WTA is excited that she has committed to play a big role in tennis and contribute to the growth of our sport in China, throughout Asia-Pacific and around the world. I know Li Na is looking forward to welcoming fans to the beautiful city of Zhuhai and showing off the sterling new facilities to the players.”
“We are looking forward to hosting this event in the spectacular city of Zhuhai,” Zhuhai Vice Mayor Lydia Long said. “It promises to be an amazing player field with Top 20 players competing head-to-head in every match. It will be an event full of excitement and innovation. On behalf of Zhuhai’s 1.5 million hospitable citizens, I would like to extend our sincere invitation to the best women players, the press, and friends from all over the world. Beautiful and romantic Zhuhai awaits your visit.”
Zhuhai is located on the southern coast of China close to Hong Kong and Macau, and last year was named "China's most livable city" by the Chinese Academy of Social Services. Zhuhai will host the event at a state-of-the-art venue featuring a 5,000 seat covered center court, a 1,500 seat court, 4 show courts and a total of 12 hard courts. The renowned Huafa Group in conjunction with APG Group manages the tournament. Huafa Group is constructing the magnificent new venue.