Zheng Qinwen and Mirra Andreeva have both stepped back from the 2026 Wuhan Open. Zheng has a shoulder problem as the reason for her absence, which came on the back of her title run at the China Open in Beijing. Andreeva also stepped aside after competing in that same final.
Philippines wildcard Alex Eala will begin her first-round match against China's Han Shi in the early draw of the WTA event in Wuhan. Eala's place in the draw gives her a chance against a home favourite.