Zheng Qinwen and Mirra Andreeva have both stepped back from the 2026 Wuhan Open. Zheng has a shoulder problem as the reason for her withdrawal, which came following her victory at the China Open in Beijing. Andreeva also pulled out after playing through that same final.

Philippines wildcard Alex Eala is set to open her campaign against China's Han Shi in the opening round of the WTA hard-court contest in Wuhan. Eala's wildcard berth sets up a strong opportunity against a Chinese crowd favourite.