Zheng Qinwen Withdraws from Hong Kong Open; Bencic, Fernandez Join Lineup
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open 2026 faces a major lineup change as Chinese star Zheng Qinwen withdrew on Sunday (October 18) due to physical exhaustion and injury concerns. The 22-year-old, who achieved a historic China Open victory earlier this month and re-entered the world's top 30, announced she will end her 2026 season early. Despite this setback, the tournament remains highly competitive with Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic and former Hong Kong champion Leylah Fernandez stepping in as replacements.
Key Points
- Zheng Qinwen withdrew from the Hong Kong Open on October 18 due to fatigue and injury from a grueling recent schedule
- She claimed the China Open title earlier this month, marking a historic achievement and returning to world top 30
- The Chinese ace announced her 2026 season is over, missing her planned debut before Hong Kong fans
- 2023 Hong Kong Open champion Leylah Fernandez and Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic confirmed their participation
- A 16-year-old Chinese prodigy, Sun Xinran, will make her Hong Kong Open debut after winning the 2026 US Open junior title
Why It Matters
Zheng's withdrawal highlights the physical toll professional tennis takes on elite athletes, particularly during an exhausting Asian swing. However, the tournament's ability to secure Bencic and Fernandez demonstrates Hong Kong's strong appeal as a premier sporting destination on the WTA calendar, ensuring fans will still witness world-class competition at Victoria Park.
Zheng's withdrawal highlights the physical toll professional tennis takes on elite athletes, particularly during an exhausting Asian swing. However, the tournament's ability to secure Bencic and Fernandez demonstrates Hong Kong's strong appeal as a premier sporting destination on the WTA calendar, ensuring fans will still witness world-class competition at Victoria Park.