The
upcoming champion of the WTA 1000 China Open will receive one of the highest
prize money amounts in the history of the WTA.
The 2023
edition of the China Open will make history by offering the largest prize purse
for a winner in any WTA or ATP event outside of the Year-End Championships.
WTA and ATP
events are returning to China after a 16-month absence following the
disappearance of Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai, who made allegations of sexual
assault against a high-profile Chinese politician.
This year,
the China Open will be a WTA 1000-level event taking place from September 30th
to October 8th, and an ATP 500-level tournament running from September 28th to
October 4th, both in Beijing.
The total
prize money for the combined 2023 China Open will be $11.6 million. Of this
amount, the total prize money for the women's event is nearly $8 million, and
for the men's event, it's approximately $3.6 million. Both sums are the highest
in international events of the same level.
Organizers
have announced that the female winner of the China Open will receive $1.5
million, the largest prize purse ever awarded in any tennis event outside of
the WTA Finals. Meanwhile, the champion of the ATP China Open will receive
$650,000.
Despite the
substantial prize money, there have been criticisms regarding the return of the
WTA to China without the Peng Shuai case being fully clarified. In this regard,
Steve Simon commented on the stance of the women's association.
“The stance
that we took at the time was appropriate. And we stand by that. But 16 months
into this, we’re convinced that our requests will not be met. And to continue
with the same strategy doesn’t make sense. So we needed to look at a different
approach,” Simon said.
"With
this, our members believe it’s time to resume the mission in China, where we
believe we can continue to make a positive difference, as we have for the last
20 years, while at the same time, making sure that Peng Shuai is not forgotten.
By returning, hopefully more progress can be made," he added.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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