Was there much point for the top players to play tournaments in Asia 10-20 years ago?

The master series are mandatory for players. Also, after the Olympics the world knows things can be done and done better in China or other Asian countries. ATP/WTA wants more people watch/play tennis which means they need to invest in Asia, the new promise land with >60% world population. Wondering why NBA paid so much money for Yao to play in the US? They are no fools.