China’s Diplomatic Sports Initiative: Tennis as a Key Focus
As part of its sports diplomacy, China aims to establish itself as the tennis master hub in Asia by fostering interest and infrastructure within its territory. Although still developing, the sport’s growth reflects China’s strategy to excel in global sports and host international competitions.
Growing Tennis Popularity in China
According to data from China’s General Sports Administration, which oversees a population of 1.4 billion, there are over 25 million tennis players, up from 20 million in 2021. Experts estimate that this number will surpass 50 million by 2030.
Despite the high cost, China has invested in tennis infrastructure, with more than 50,000 courts available, ranging from private clubs to public facilities. However, the sport remains inaccessible for many in rural areas.
The training system combines international methodologies with local resources. Virtual reality for tactical training, AI platforms for opponent scouting, wearable technology for physiological monitoring, and Hawk-Eye for stroke analysis are among the technologies employed.
ITF World Tennis Masters Tour in Beijing
Beijing will host the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour for the first time, featuring players from over 20 countries. The MT200 Beijing Changping tournament will take place from April 16-20 at the Shandong Sports Center.
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) guides a circuit for tennis enthusiasts aged 30-90 worldwide who do not compete in the regular professional circuit.
Though Beijing is not a fixed host for ITF world championships, it does accommodate regional or national tournaments within the Masters circuit.
China aspires to host an ITF Seniors World Championships in the coming years, leveraging its infrastructure used for the 2008 Olympics, the China Open (ATP/WTA), and the WTA Finals.
Local sponsors, including sports brands, banks, and mobile operators, back this market. Meanwhile, luxury brands and transnational companies support the sport at the professional level.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is China’s goal in promoting tennis? China aims to establish itself as a global tennis hub through sports diplomacy, fostering interest and infrastructure within its territory.
- How many tennis players are there in China? There are over 25 million tennis players in China, with estimates suggesting a growth to 50 million by 2030.
- What infrastructure does China have for tennis? China boasts more than 50,000 tennis courts, though accessibility remains an issue for those in rural areas.
- What technologies are used in tennis training in China? Virtual reality, AI platforms, wearable technology, and Hawk-Eye are employed in tennis training systems.
- What is the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour? The ITF World Tennis Masters Tour is a circuit for tennis enthusiasts aged 30-90 who do not compete in the regular professional circuit.
- Why is Beijing hosting the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour? Although not a fixed host for ITF world championships, Beijing accommodates regional or national tournaments within the Masters circuit.
- What are China’s aspirations for tennis events? China aims to host an ITF Seniors World Championships, utilizing its existing infrastructure from past events like the 2008 Olympics and China Open (ATP/WTA).
- Who supports tennis in China? Local sponsors, including sports brands, banks, and mobile operators, back the sport. Luxury brands and transnational companies also support tennis at the professional level.
