Credited from: SCMP
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has announced that the prestigious Billie Jean King Cup Finals will be hosted in Shenzhen, China, from 2025 to 2027, representing a major milestone in the history of the tournament. This decision marks the first time the competition, previously known as the Fed Cup, will be staged in China, and the first occasion it has taken place in Asia since 1989, when it was held in Tokyo. As noted by the ITF, this transition is emblematic of the progress of women’s sports and tennis in China, highlighting the country’s commitment to cultural exchange and athletic inspiration.
Chinese tennis star Zheng Qinwen, ranked world No. 5 and an Olympic gold medallist, shared her enthusiasm, stating, "This event reflects the incredible progress of tennis in China and highlights how women’s sports continue to thrive here." In her words, the competition will undoubtedly inspire many young girls in the region to pursue tennis professionally.
Billie Jean King, a 12-time Grand Slam champion, praised Shenzhen as an embodiment of growth and innovation. She expressed that the city will enhance the expansion of tennis while championing the essence of women’s sports.
Previously, the BJK Cup Finals were contested in Spain, including the 2024 edition held in Málaga, where Italy clinched the title. The qualifiers for the 2025 event will feature six groups, starting on April 7, and will incorporate a round-robin format. Host nation China and the reigning champion Italy will automatically qualify for the finals alongside the six group winners. The ITF's strategic decision reflects both a new era for women's tennis and its dedication to promoting the visibility and significance of women's sporting achievements globally. For more details, visit Reuters, AP News, and South China Morning Post.