Serving up an ace Finale

"Launched when no international events could be held in China, the CTA Tour has provided quality training and competition opportunities for Chinese players, especially those not yet ready to play overseas.

"This will only help prepare more youngsters for future challenges on the pro stage with the tour's structure, prize money and consistent tests making a big difference," he said.

Cui, a 24-year-old rising star, said he expected to build on his Macao triumph to boost his career development next year.

"The whole setting of this tournament was really professional and high quality," Cui said after beating veteran Bai, China's former men's No 1, 6-0, 6-1, in the men's singles final on Sunday.

"I am really grateful to have this kind of test at home at such a high level so that I can focus just on playing the game to the best of my ability and try to build momentum from here," said Cui, who mainly competed on the International Tennis Federation's lower-level circuit.

"I think I will be more composed and mature when I return to the international circuit next year thanks to the experience of playing on the home tour."

Even with some legs canceled this year due to the nation's vigilant pandemic-control policies, the CTA Tour has hosted 33 tournaments in 17 cities across the country, attracting over 18,000 professional and amateur players since its 2020 inception.

By hosting the country's best for a second straight year, local organizers and promoters in Macao are expecting to take advantage of the exposure and prestige of the tour finals to boost tennis' profile in a city that is investing heavily in the sport, from grassroots level up.

"We've received quite positive feedback from not just the athletes but also the local crowd since last year's first edition. This tournament is making a very good impression on all participants and the local community," said Pun Weng-kun, president of the Macao Sports Bureau.