The China Open will see an instant improvement after the upgrade, with the ranking points rising from 175 to 500.

Prize money will rise to $20.7 million, an increase of 400 percent since last year. The event will also be moved from September 10 to October 3 so it doesn't run up against the US Open.

Drewett said the changes will benefit fans and the sport in a long run.

"The changes we are undertaking represent the biggest shake-up of the ATP Tour since its inception, but reflect a true appetite for the sport in emerging key markets," he said. "Our players, fans, tournaments and sponsors deserve a world class Tour and that is what we will be giving them in 2009."

The other nine cities granted 500 Series tournaments are: Rotterdam, Dubai, Acapulco, Memphis, Barcelona, Washington DC, Tokyo, Basel and Valencia.

Hamburg is in litigation over its Masters Series status and has been reserved to host an 11th tournament in the 500 Series.

【体坛英语资讯：Beijing preparing for ATP 500 Series tour in 2009】相关文章：

★ 体坛英语资讯：China overpowered 77-83 in friendly

★ 娱乐英语资讯：TV gala helps raise 1.5 bln yuan for earthquake-hit areas

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Britney Spears enjoys romance holiday with mystery man

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Hilton wants to name first child London

★ 体坛英语资讯：China bows out with head held high

★ 体坛资讯：Gay wins 100m in years fastest 9.84 sec

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Gloves making a comeback as alternative accessory to brag bag

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Miley Cyrus tops highest-earning-teens list

★ 体坛英语资讯：Visiting Shanghai Sharks lose NBA pre-season game against Houston Rockets 94-131

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Brangelina ready for another kid