The WTA 1000 tournament in Beijing, the first major event of the Asian tennis tour, kicks off on Wednesday, September 30, with the draw for matches announced on Monday. This tournament is one of the premier events on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) calendar, offering substantial prize money and ranking points. Top-seeded player Coco Gauff, ranked third in the world, will have a first-round bye, meaning she will not play in the initial round. Instead, she will face either Lanlana Tararudee or Camila Osorio in her first match of the tournament. Gauff spoke about her mindset heading into the tournament during a pre-event press conference. She noted that with the conclusion of the Grand Slam season, much of the pressure she had felt earlier in the year has eased. Gauff described the recent month as a period of training and preparation for the upcoming season, highlighting that her strong performance at the start of the season was partly due to a more relaxed and focused mindset. The American player also mentioned the positive reception she has received in China, where she has been given significant support and gifts. Gauff said this local reception helps her feel more at ease and less burdened by expectations. She emphasized that the absence of Grand Slam tournaments, which typically bring intense pressure and media scrutiny, has created a calmer environment for her to compete. As the Beijing tournament begins, Gauff's relaxed approach and the support she has received in China may play a key role in her performance. The event will provide a crucial opportunity for her to build on her early-season success and maintain her position in the rankings.