How a farcical China Open finale highlighted tennis’ biggest problem

The China Open in Beijing concluded in farcical circumstances as both semi-finals and the final were decided by walkovers due to injuries and a default, meaning no matches were actually played to completion at the tournament's climax. The series of walkovers has intensified debate around tennis's demanding and overcrowded calendar, which critics argue is pushing players to their physical limits. The situation in Beijing is being cited as a stark example of the sport needing to urgently address scheduling and player welfare concerns.