The tennis games in China have resumed since August as the Chinese Tennis Association (CTA) launched a new series with all matches played behind closed doors due to COVID-19 concerns.

The CTA Tour debuted on August 1 in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, followed by the latest stop in Rizhao, east China's Shandong Province, which kicked off on August 25.

Over 300 tennis players in China have registered for the eight-day Rizhao Open, which is comprised of four events: men's singles and doubles, and women's singles and doubles.

"The CTA Tour provides a platform for professional players to maintain their competitive form during the season break caused by the pandemic," two-time Grand Slam champion Li Na told the media as the circuit's ambassador.

"Without playing week in and week out on the pro tours for a long time, players need to be tested on court to get their touch and rhythm back. This is providing exactly what they need to get their game back.

"Meanwhile, an event like this builds a ladder for some youngsters to climb the domestic ranks, helping to prepare them for the transition to turn pro in the future."

"I want to get into the game as soon as possible and try my best to play hard at each game," said China's No. 1 and world No. 29 Wang Qiang. 

Also due to COVID-19 concerns, she had to withdraw from the Grand Slam event U.S. Open and opt for the CTA series.

Wang Meiling, champion of CTA Tour in Anning, said her success of gaining her first title of the career in the tour has boosted her confidence. The 20-year-old added she wanted more titles in future.

Wang encouraged youngsters to participate in sport games. "Having a strong opponent in the game will inspire you to learn in a fast way," she added.

"Tennis is like life. There will be ups and downs in every game, and it will not always go smoothly. I also found my life goal in the game," said men's singles player Sun Qian.

The CTA Tour consists of four tiers of competitions, beginning with the 200-class up to the 1000-class.

Organizers said the series will provide a ladder for lower-ranked players or even amateurs to progress through the domestic ranks.

With the domestic COVID-19 outbreak under control in China, organizers of the CTA Tour have been negotiating with multiple cities to expand the top-tier 1000 and second-level 800 events over the next two months before opening the lower levels to amateurs across the country.

The CTA final is expected to be held in early December in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province.