Egypt's men's number one Mohamed El Shorbagy will play in Shanghai ©Getty Images

This year's Professional Squash Association (PSA) China Open will be the biggest tournament ever staged in the country after record prize money was announced for the World Tour event in Shanghai.

A purse of $100,000 (£75,000/€90,000) is up for grabs in the men's tournament with the women playing for a pot of $70,000 (£53,000/€63,000).

Many of the world's top players will be involved, including Egypt's men's number one Mohamed El Shorbagy and world champion Gregory Gaultier of France.

In the women's draw, England's world number two Laura Massaro, the 2013 world champion, will top the field along with Egypt's number three Raneem El Welily.

"We're delighted to see such a strong entry list," said tournament director Franco Amadei.

Laura Massaro will headline the women's competition ©Getty Images
Laura Massaro will headline the women's competition ©Getty Images

"Since first staging the Stars On The Bund China Open in 2014, thanks to the great support of players and sponsors, we have honoured the promise to improve the tournament year-on-year."

A glass court will be used for the tournament on the 11th floor terrace of The Peninsula Shanghai, offering spectacular views of the city.

“By bringing a world-class squash event to Shanghai once a year, we hope we can inspire a new generation of squash fans and players here in China, contributing also to the growth of the sport across the region,” said Li Sheng, founder and chief executive of event promoter SECA.

The tournament begins on September 1.