China Open 2025 | Tennis History | From Humble Beginnings to Global Spotlight

The China Open in Beijing has grown into one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in Asia. As part of both the ATP Tour 500 and the WTA 1000 series, it attracts top-ranked players and thousands of spectators every year. Set against the backdrop of China’s capital, the event has become more than just a tennis competition—it is a celebration of sport, culture, and international prestige.

Origins and Milestones

The China Open began in 2004 for both the men’s and women’s circuits. Initially hosted as a smaller ATP event, it expanded quickly in both scale and significance. A key milestone came in 2009, when the tournament moved to the National Tennis Center in Beijing’s Olympic Green—home of the Beijing Olympics 2008. This transition marked its growth into a major global fixture.

The women’s tournament was upgraded to WTA Premier Mandatory status, now known as WTA 1000, making it one of the four most important WTA tournaments after the Grand Slams. The men’s event became part of the ATP 500 Series, further boosting its profile.

Memorable Champions and Moments

Over the years, the China Open has welcomed legendary players such as Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Caroline Wozniacki, and Naomi Osaka. Djokovic, in particular, dominated the event with six titles, while Chinese star Li Na helped boost the popularity of the sport within the country.

The event is known for its energetic crowd, dynamic court design, and world-class organization. It consistently ranks as one of the best tennis experiences in Asia, with fans and players praising the vibrant atmosphere and smooth logistics.

The Future of Tennis in China

With rising local talent and a growing fan base, the China Open plays a critical role in developing tennis in Asia. The state-of-the-art facilities and increasing media coverage reflect the country’s ambition to be a long-term player in global tennis.

Other major Chinese tournaments like the Shanghai Masters and Wuhan Open have joined the calendar, but Beijing remains a symbolic heart of the tennis movement in China.