WTA China Open 2025 Prize Money and Stars To Watch
The tennis world’s gaze has shifted to China, where a formidable field of elite athletes has gathered for the China Open, a WTA 1000 event poised to deliver high-stakes drama and thrilling competition. As the penultimate WTA 1000 tournament of the season, the China Open offers not only a massive prize purse but also crucial ranking points for players vying for a coveted spot in the year-end WTA Finals. With the main draw set to be released on Monday, September 22, anticipation is building for a tournament that is shaping up to be a true battle of champions.
The biggest news preceding the tournament, unfortunately, came in the form of an absence. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has withdrawn from the competition, a decision that has surely altered the landscape of the draw. However, her absence does little to diminish the star power on display. With the rest of the Top 10 confirmed for the event, the China Open stands as the most high-profile tournament since the US Open, a testament to its significance on the tour calendar.
Leading the charge in Sabalenka’s stead is six-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek. The Polish superstar, who has previously lifted the trophy in Beijing, will be looking to reassert her dominance and add another prestigious title to her resume. She will face stiff competition from a deep and talented field that includes reigning China Open champion Coco Gauff, who will be keen to defend her title. Gauff, a fan favorite and one of the sport’s brightest young stars, will be seeking to build on her recent successes.
The list of contenders is extensive and impressive, featuring a mix of established veterans and rising talents. Among the most notable names are American powerhouses Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys, both of whom are known for their aggressive play and deep runs in major tournaments. Also confirmed for the event are Amanda Anisimova and the young phenom Mirra Andreeva, who continue to make waves on the tour with their impressive skills and maturity beyond their years.
The China Open will also mark the return of several players from injury or hiatus, adding another layer of intrigue. Paula Badosa, who has been sidelined from the tour, is making her much-anticipated return in Beijing. Fans will also be excited to see the return of Chinese star Zheng Qinwen, who is playing her first tournament since Wimbledon. Her presence will undoubtedly energize the home crowd and add to the already electric atmosphere.
Beyond the headliners, the field is peppered with former Grand Slam champions, ensuring that every match has the potential for an upset. This illustrious group includes Jelena Ostapenko, Sofia Kenin, Emma Raducanu, Bianca Andreescu, and Barbora Krejcikova. Their collective experience and proven ability to win on the biggest stage make them dangerous floaters in the draw. Additionally, the field will feature US Open semifinalist Naomi Osaka and Montreal champion Victoria Mboko, both of whom have shown they are capable of defeating the world’s best.
Beyond the prestige and the high-level competition, the China Open is also a financial juggernaut. With a staggering total prize purse of $8,963,700, the tournament is the fourth-most lucrative of all 10 WTA 1000 events, trailing only Madrid, Miami, and Indian Wells. The champion will walk away with a life-changing paycheck of $1,124,380 and a massive haul of 1,000 ranking points. These points are invaluable as the race to the WTA Finals intensifies.
The prize money and point breakdown for the singles draw is as follows:
- Champion: $1,124,380 | 1,000 points
- Finalist: $597,890 | 650 points
- Semifinalists: $332,160 | 390 points
- Quarterfinalists: $189,075 | 215 points
- Round of 16: $103,225 | 120 points
- Round of 32: $60,400 | 65 points
- Round of 64: $35,260 | 35 points
- Round of 96: $23,760 | 10 points
The comprehensive prize money structure ensures that every player in the main draw, regardless of how far they advance, is well-rewarded for their efforts. The 1,000 ranking points for the champion are particularly significant, as they can dramatically alter the race for the year-end finals in Riyadh.
With the draw ceremony scheduled for Monday, September 22, the final pieces of the puzzle will soon fall into place. Fans will get their first look at the matchups that will define the tournament, and the path to the championship will be revealed. As the world’s best female tennis players converge on Beijing, the stage is set for a week of unforgettable tennis, with every point carrying weight in the quest for a title and a substantial payday.
