China's Zhang Shuai fended off Russian Kamilla Rakhimova in three sets to reach the second round of the WTA Guangzhou Open on Tuesday. Zhang was joined by two other Chinese players, Yuan Yue and Wang Xiyu, who also advanced. 

Zhang, who claimed the title here in both 2013 and 2017, is currently ranked World No. 237 and could only enter the main draw as a wildcard. However, the two-time Grand Slam women's doubles champion stayed in control in the match, overpowering Rakhimova 6-2, 6-1 in just 58 minutes to advance to the second round. Next up for her is American Bernarda Pera.

Third seed Yuan Yue also advanced on Tuesday. The World No. 44 is the top ranked Chinese player in Guangzhou Open, and fended off Greet Minnen 7-6, 6-1 to reach the second round where she will face Thai Mananchaya Sawangkaew next.

Meanwhile, China's Wang Xiyu defeated Arantxa Rus in straight sets to title-defense campaign, improving to 3-2 overall against the Dutchwoman. The former junior world No.1 shocked Magda Linette to win her madien tour-level singles last year. The World No. 99 will face Wei Sijia in an all-Chinese second round match.