This study utilized model simulations and data analysis to investigate the spatiotemporal variations of summer ozone concentrations in China and their influencing factors. The results revealed higher ozone concentrations in the Sichuan Basin and the central region of North China compared to other areas, and a strengthening correlation between summer ozone concentrations and the Western Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) over the past two decades. Precursor emissions were identified as the dominant factor driving the long-term trends and magnitudes of summer ozone concentrations, while meteorological conditions associated with the WPSH played a key role in the interannual variability of ozone. The response of ozone evolution to precursor emissions and meteorological conditions varied across different urban areas, with inland city clusters exhibiting stronger responses to precursor emissions and coastal city clusters showing stronger responses to meteorological conditions. Therefore, the development of appropriate ozone reduction strategies should consider the specific characteristics and environmental conditions of each local urban area. Overall, I recommend the acceptance of the manuscript after making minor revisions.

1. This study mainly analyzes the simulation results, but it seems there is a lack of model evaluation. To enhance the credibility of the paper, it is recommended to provide a comparison between the simulated results and measurements to validate the simulated ozone concentrations.
2. The first paragraph of the introduction describes various hazards of ozone, which, although accurate, are not closely related to the main topic of this paper. To quickly focus on the topic, it is advised to trim down these descriptions in the introduction and emphasize the background and objectives of the research.
3. Two indices of the Western Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH) were employed in this study, but the description of the impact of the second index on ozone seems more like an inference and requires a more rigorous analysis.
4. The paper argues that the influence of WPSH on regional ozone depends on the spatial proximity to WPSH. Firstly, please clarify the geographic scope of WPSH. Secondly, this conclusion seems to be invalid in some regions, such as Xinjiang, where the correlation between ozone and WPSH is stronger than in Mongolia. To enhance the accuracy and applicability of the paper, please provide more detailed analysis and data support regarding the relationship between ozone and WPSH in different regions, and discuss possible reasons for these differences.

Please find the comments in the supplement

Please see the attached file. Thanks.