World tennis body calls for inquiry into sex assault allegation by Chinese player Peng Shuai
- Peng has not been seen since her allegations against a former Chinese leader were posted and then quickly removed, sparking concerns for her well-being
- ‘Where is Peng Shuai?’: former world number one Chris Evert and US tennis and French player Alizé Cornet among figures seeking assurance she is safe
Peng, 35, alleged on social media in China early this month she was coerced into sex by the former leader in 2019 and maintained a sexual relationship with him until October.
Peng’s post, which was deleted about half an hour after it was published, stated that she could not provide any evidence to prove her allegations.
WTA chairman and CEO Steve Simon said in a statement that Peng’s allegations should be “investigated fully, fairly, transparently and without censorship”.
“Her accusation about the conduct of a former Chinese leader involving a sexual assault must be treated with the utmost seriousness,” Simon said.
“In all societies, the behaviour she alleges that took place needs to be investigated, not condoned or ignored. We commend Peng Shuai for her remarkable courage and strength in coming forward. Women around the world are finding their voices so injustices can be corrected.
“We expect this issue to be handled properly, meaning the allegations must be investigated fully, fairly, transparently and without censorship.”
The WTA statement did not identify the Chinese leader. Staff at the WTA’s Beijing and Shenzhen offices declined to comment further on the matter on Monday.