Fan-favorite Halep returns to Wuhan

As a WTA Premier 5 tournament with a $2.8 million prize pool and 900 ranking points, the Dongfeng Motor Wuhan Open is one of the top destinations for the world's top female players, with Wimbledon champion Simona Halep of Romania heading this year's field.

The tournament, which last year saw 19 of the world's top 20 competing, is returning to the capital city of Hubei province from Sept 22-28.

"I'm really looking forward to returning to the Wuhan Open for the sixth time," said Halep, who needed just 56 minutes to crush Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 in a sublime performance at Wimbledon last month.