“Congratulations to you and your team. You’ve had an incredible year. I watched you at the French Open – I think everyone did. And yeah, I wish you all the best for the rest of the season and a successful next year.”

Kartal, who was making her debut in Wuhan this week and used an injury-protected ranking to enter the draw, was also impressed with all of the work that went into the tournament. “It’s my first time here, and as a tournament, this is unbelievable, the stadium that we get to play at,” she continued.

“There are so many people that run this event that I want to thank. From everyone behind the scenes to the ball kids, it’s so tough for us on court and they are out here, running around, making our lives a heck of a lot easier.

“I’ve absolutely loved my time here. It’s an incredible, incredible event here at the Wuhan Open, and I can’t wait to be back here next year. To play in an atmosphere like this, it’s a dream come true for me, and hopefully I can be in many more of these finals.”

“We’ve had an unbelievable week. I think not many people expected me to be here and bring the level that we did. Thank you guys, love you guys.

“And lastly, I’m a long way from home right now, and everyone here at the Dongfeng Voyah Wuhan Open has made me feel so at home, and as I said, I’ve loved every second of it. I can’t wait to be back next year. Thank you for making me, and I think the rest of the players here this week, have an unbelievable atmosphere to play in.”

Chwalinska returned the kind words to Kartal and delighted the crowd as she spoke some Chinese during her victory speech. “First of all, congrats to Sonay on a great week,” the first-time title winner said.

“You are such an impressive player. I had a chance to watch a few of your matches, and I was very impressed. I wish you all the best, and I’m sure great things are ahead of you.

“I would like to thank my team, of course. My two coaches, my physio for being with me this week, but every week basically! A few people are definitely watching at home, so they know who they are. I’m very grateful for every person in my life, basically. So yeah, thank you so much!

“Last but not least, I would like to thank everyone who came today, but also during the week. You guys were incredible. You’re so passionate about tennis and we really, really appreciate it. Thank you guys for the crazy gifts you gave us, the energy, it means a lot, I really enjoyed my time here, it was my first time as well, definitely not the last.”