Signing off on a Zhu-high

The WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai closed the curtain on the 2018 women's pro season in fine style on Sunday, with a festival atmosphere and the continuing ascent of Chinese ace Wang Qiang serving up a treat in the southern coastal city.

Wang fell just short of capping her excellent form on the tour's Asian swing, losing the sold-out singles final 6-3, 6-4 to Australia's Ashleigh Barty.

However, the Tianjin native's deep run against a classy field, featuring two-time Grand Slam champion Garbine Muguruza and the rest of the world's No 9-20 players, was a huge bonus for fans and organizers.