China Open Round 1: Sinner launches title defense as Sabalenka and Zheng dazzle in Beijing

Why this one matters

The Asian hardcourt swing kicked off in earnest on Wednesday at the National Tennis Center in Beijing, and the world’s best wasted no time finding their rhythm. Headlining the afternoon session, defending champion and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner sent an unmistakable signal to the rest of the draw with a ruthless 6-3, 6-4 victory over Roman Safiullin.

Sinner played with the cold efficiency that has defined his 2026 season. The Italian struck 26 winners, won 84 percent of his first-serve points, and did not concede a single break opportunity throughout the 82-minute contest. Coming off his grueling summer schedule, Sinner proved that his hardcourt mastery translates seamlessly to the cooler autumn conditions of Beijing.

Diamond Court erupts for Zheng and Sabalenka

While Sinner commanded the men’s ATP 500 action, the WTA 1000 main draw delivered electric theater on Diamond Court. Fresh off her US Open final appearance, Aryna Sabalenka dismantled Anhelina Kalinina 6-2, 6-3, pounding 28 winners and dominating baseline exchanges.

The loudest ovation of the tournament arrived when Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen walked out under the stadium lights. Playing in her first home tournament since capturing gold in Paris, Zheng overwhelmed Kamilla Rakhimova 6-1, 6-1 in just 58 minutes. With Carlos Alcaraz scheduled to begin his tournament on Thursday, the China Open is delivering Grand Slam caliber excitement from the opening round.

The numbers that tell the story

• Match scoreline: Jannik Sinner def. Roman Safiullin 6-3, 6-4.
• Service dominance: Sinner faced zero break points and won 32 of 38 first-serve points.
• Sabalenka power: Sabalenka fired five aces and converted four of six break opportunities.
• Zheng masterclass: Zheng lost only two games while striking 21 clean winners.
• Next up in Beijing: Carlos Alcaraz opens his campaign Thursday against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.