The decision of the WTA – which has endured eight-figure losses in 2020 and 2021 but not as much last year – comes as men's tennis also prepares to return to China later in 2023 after a break due to Covid-19.

The WTA recently suspended all tournaments in China amid what its chairman calls 'serious doubts' about the safety of Chinese player Peng, who accused a top Communist Party leader of sexual assault.

The European Union, the UN, the US and Britain all have called for proof of Peng's whereabouts and well-being.