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Guangzhou Open: GB's Harriet Dart wins opener as WTA returns to China

Britain's Harriet Dart won her opening match of the Guangzhou Open as the Woman's Tennis Association resumed competition in China.

The 27-year-old beat Germany's Jule Niemeier 6-3 6-2 to reach the last 16.

Compatriot Jodie Burrage was knocked out by Polish top seed Magda Linette.

The Guangzhou Open is the first WTA event since January 2020 to take place in China. Covid-19 disruption of the tour was followed by a boycott over allegations made by Peng Shuai.

Former doubles world number one Peng said in November 2021 she was "forced" into a sexual relationship with former China vice-premier Zhang Gaoli.