Scenes similar to those in Shanghai unfolded again at the WTA 1000 event in Wuhan. What many hoped would be a stretch of uninterrupted competition from the top women’s stars turned challenging as the scorching conditions took their toll.
Just as several players were forced to retire mid-match in Shanghai due to the oppressive weather, Wuhan witnessed a similar pattern, with a few top contenders unable to continue amid the intense heat. Some even looked livid with their own performance. So let’s see how the WTA stars dealt with the fierce conditions in Wuhan.
How Did Emma Raducanu and Mirra Andreeva Struggle During the Wuhan Open?
One of the most notable players to struggle on a taxing Tuesday in Wuhan was British No. 1 and former US Open champion Emma Raducanu. Facing American Ann Li in the first round of the WTA 1000 event, Raducanu made a bright start, breaking her opponent in the opening game. However, the momentum quickly shifted as Li found her rhythm, showcasing cleaner ball striking and rattling off six straight games to take the first set 6-1 in just 28 minutes.
The Brit’s troubles only deepened in the second set as she double-faulted four times and quickly fell behind 1-4. Her discomfort became apparent as she appeared dizzy at times, prompting medical staff to check her blood pressure and temperature. After a short discussion with the trainer, Raducanu approached the net and conceded the match, marking a premature end.
Raducanu having her blood pressure checked when down 1-6, 1-4* to Li.
Looks totally off today… pic.twitter.com/wYoFalhoS2
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) October 7, 2025
Russian youngster and fifth seed Mirra Andreeva also seemed affected on the stressful day. She faced Laura Siegemund in a grueling encounter, winning the first set 7–6(4), but soon struggled, hitting 15 double faults, winning just 40% of her second-serve points, and getting broken eight times.
“F*king sick of this f*king tennis”
18-year-old Russian tennis player Mirra Andreeva couldn’t hold back her emotions after losing a point in a match against Germany’s Laura Siegemund at the Wuhan tournament. pic.twitter.com/WmrOFZ6LKE
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) October 7, 2025
The 18-year-old’s frustration became evident, and during one changeover, she looked at the camera and demanded not to be filmed. Tears surfaced between points, and after a double fault in the fifth game of the second set, she vented in Russian, “F**king sick of this f**king tennis.” With the emotional turmoil and falling short of her true potential, Andreeva eventually lost the contest 7–6(4), 3-6, 3-6.
Why Did Jelena Ostapenko Retire From the Wuhan Open?
The sweltering conditions in Wuhan are emerging as a serious challenge for the players, highlighted by another walkover involving former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko. The Latvian, facing Sorana Cîrstea on roofless Court 1 on Tuesday, appeared off her game from the very first point.
A key factor behind Ostapenko’s dip in performance appeared to be heat-related illness. She showed discomfort during the match, and medical staff assessed her condition. The Latvian was forced to retire after losing the first set 6-0 and trailing 2-1 in the second.
“It was a tough day. I suffered a heat stroke today. Thank you, China, for the atmosphere, emotions, and incredible energy from the crowd. I am truly sorry that I had to finish the match this way. Thank you to all my Chinese fans. I will be back stronger next time,” she shared on her Instagram story after the match.
With the mercury climbing past 93°F, the tournament saw the heat rule enforced on Monday, suspending outdoor play. The rule permits a 10-minute break between the second and third sets and allows partial or complete closure of the center-court roof. The rule remained in effect on Tuesday between 12:30 and 17:30, though no matches were stopped.
