Hong Kong tennis fans will get a chance to see world No 8 Emma Navarro in action this week, after the American signed up to play in the city’s inaugural WTA 125 event.

However, China’s Zhang Shuai, who made it through to the third round of the China Open at Navarro’s expense, is expected to withdraw. Zhang takes on Belgium’s Greet Minnen in Beijing on Sunday.

Even so, Hong Kong China Tennis Association chief Michael Cheng Ming-git said he thought the line-up for the tournament, which begins at Victoria Park on Monday was arguably better than some WTA 250 ones.

“Usually a top 10 player doesn’t play [in any 125 events] so I’m super happy she is coming to Hong Kong,” Cheng said. “Navarro came through the college route and has done so well on the tour; she is an inspiration to the younger generation.”