Chengdu Becomes China's Newest Tennis Destination

With over 400,000 amateur tennis players in Chengdu, there are plenty of tennis fans showing support for this week’s $125,000 ATP Challenger Tour event in the bustling Chinese city.

The Sichuan International Tennis Center is the site for both the Challenger and an upcoming ATP World Tour 250 event in September, both of which are making their debut this year. With a Center Court that can seat 6,300 spectators, two show courts containing 2,000 seats and 15 field courts, tennis fans will be able to play on the same courts as their favorite players when the tournaments aren’t in session.

“Tennis is very popular in this city,” said Event Operation Director Jia Jiyue. “It became a required course in elementary and middle school starting in 2009. I believe Chengdu is the only city in China to have this requirement.”

This week has also been a showcase for several young Chinese players who could be the future stars of the game. Among them include teenager Fajing Sun, who came through qualifying to reach the quarter-finals, and 22-year-old Xin Gao, who reached the doubles final (w/Zhe Li).

Several of the players this week had already competed in Chengdu before and are already making plans to return again.

“I have been coming to Chengdu for so many years and I’m very happy for them to be hosting this Challenger for the first time,” said Chinese No. 1 Di Wu. “The hotel and facilities are great, and the staff are full of passion for both the players and the game. I believe they will do a good job for the ATP 250 next month.” 

Unseeded players Jason Jung and Ruben Ramirez Hidalgo will battle for the title in Sunday’s final.