Zhang Shuai: I couldn't perform better

In the first round of the 2026 Wuhan Open women’s singles, Zhang Shuai lost 3-6, 0-6 to Krueger, ending her campaign in the opening round. Speaking in a post-match interview, the recently busy Zhang admitted that, given her current physical condition, she could not perform at a higher level, but she did not want to give up the opportunity to play in front of the fans.

Zhang commented, “Hello friends in Wuhan. I’m very sorry to end my singles campaign at the Wuhan Open in this way. Honestly, your so-called ‘Sister Shuai’ was truly exhausted today; this was the best I could do at the moment. I feel very sorry I couldn’t perform better. With my physical state today, I regret that I couldn’t play at a higher level, but I didn’t want to withdraw or miss the chance to play in front of everyone. I gritted my teeth and finished the whole match. I hope everyone can understand, and I apologize to those who bought tickets specifically to see my match.”

Zhang Shuai went on to say she hopes to perform better in the future at the Wuhan Open: “Since the first time I came to the Wuhan Open, I’ve really loved this city. You’ve made me feel so welcome, and your passion for tennis surpasses that of fans anywhere in the world. I truly thank you all for your love of tennis. It’s the enthusiasm from tennis fans in Wuhan and Hubei that has written a new chapter for Chinese tennis. From Li Ting’s Olympic gold in women’s doubles at Athens 2004, to Li Na’s Grand Slam titles, and Zheng Qinwen’s Olympic gold, all of these incredible achievements came from Hubei. Your long-standing passion for the sport has supported Hubei tennis and driven the development of tennis in China. I regret not performing better tonight, but I still hope to play in front of you as much as I can. As I am getting older, I can’t say for sure if I will have another chance to come back here in the future. In the coming year, I will give it my utmost effort and hope to return to the Wuhan Open next year with a better performance.”

Finally, Zhang said: “I know everyone is looking forward to Zheng Qinwen playing—her outstanding performance at the China Open has amazed the tennis world again. But as you have seen, after putting all our effort into a major tournament, it’s hard for body and mind to recover quickly and reach a high level the next day. Nonetheless, we also do not want to all withdraw, which would mean fans can’t see local players on court. I hope everyone understands my condition today. I believe we will all find our best form again, and see you next year at the Wuhan Open. Please continue to support the other Chinese players still in the draw. Every Chinese player is a star of hope, a hero. Thank you all!”