Top 3 Title Favourites at WTA China Open 2024 in Iga Swiatek's Absence

Following the thrilling conclusion of the US Open 2024, the competition for the WTA Finals has intensified. Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka have secured their spots, but the rest of the top eight are still up for grabs. The highly-anticipated WTA China Open 2024 is set to take place from September 25 to October 6. Despite some top tennis stars withdrawing from the WTA 1000 event, the stage is set for an electrifying showdown in Beijing.

One of the most surprising withdrawals comes from none other than defending champion Iga Swiatek. With Swiatek's absence, fans can expect a new champion to emerge in Beijing. The excitement is palpable, and anticipation is high as we await the crowning of a new champion in the Chinese capital.

Let's take a closer look at the top three contenders vying for the Chinese Crown:

3) Qinwen Zheng

The Reigning Olympic Champion will have an excellent opportunity to claim the WTA 1000 title on her home turf. Qinwen Zheng is poised to emerge as a dark horse in the race for victory at the WTA China Open 2024. Notably, the withdrawals of Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina from the tournament are expected to pave the way for multiple surprises in the draw.

Despite losing to Rybakina 6-1, 6-2 in the first round last year, a strong showing in Beijing this time, will solidify her spot in the WTA Finals. With her closest rival, Danielle Collins, out of the competition due to an injury, the balls are in her courts to go the distance in the competition.

2) Jessica Pegula 

Jessica Pegula had the season of her life on Hardcourts, with notable victories at the 2024 Canadian Open and impressive performances at the Cincinnati Masters and the US Open. Despite coming up short in the finals at both events, she showcased her skill by defeating top seeds like Iga Swiatek and Paula Badosa.

Following her recent success at the US Open, Pegula has climbed in the WTA rankings, surpassing players like Rybakina, Jasmine Paolini, and Coco Gauff. As she heads into the Beijing tournament as the second seed, she will be positioned opposite Aryna Sabalenka, her recent victor, potentially setting up a compelling final match between the two.

1) Aryna Sabalenka 

The reigning Australian Open champion defended her crown in a dominating fashion by not dropping a single set in the course of the competition. Additionally, she defeated Qinwen Zheng, a home favourite for the China Open. Following this victory, the World Number 2 failed to make it past the quarter-finals of the next event and got humbled in the finals of the Madrid Open and Rome Masters.

Sabalenka encountered fitness challenges during the French Open and had to withdraw from Wimbledon due to a rare shoulder injury. Nonetheless, she regained her form at the Cincinnati Masters, clinching the title by defeating Jessica Pegulla. The 26-year-old also triumphed at the 2024 US Open. With defending champion Iga Swiatek absent, Sabalenka has a prime chance to seize the WTA China Open 2024 title.