The international tennis community breathed a collective sigh of relief as Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai reappeared in public, attending a tennis tournament in Beijing. However, concerns about her safety and well-being persist.

Peng, a former doubles world number one, had vanished from public view since accusing senior Chinese leader Zhang Gaoli of sexual assault on her Weibo account on November 2, alleging that Zhang Gaoli, a former Chinese vice-premier, had coerced her into sex and subsequently engaged in an on-again, off-again consensual relationship. Her post was quickly deleted, and the topic was blocked from discussion on China’s heavily censored internet.

New Videos and Photos Emerge

Recently released videos and photos show Peng having dinner with her coach and friends at a restaurant and watching a tennis match at the Fila Kids Junior Tennis Challenger Finals. However, the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) deemed this evidence “insufficient” to address concerns about her safety.

WTA Threatens to Pull Out of China

The WTA has taken a strong stance, threatening to pull tournaments out of China unless Peng’s situation is resolved. Chairman and CEO Steve Simon stated, “Our relationship with China is at a crossroads.”

International Pressure Mounts

The United States and the United Kingdom have joined the chorus of concern, calling for evidence of Peng’s whereabouts and safety. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has remained notably silent, opting for “quiet diplomacy.”

Peng’s case highlights a growing trend of Chinese citizens disappearing after criticizing party figures or speaking out against corruption and human rights abuses. Some re-emerge weeks or months later, often without explanation.

Timeline of Events

1. November 2: Peng posts accusation on Weibo

2. November 2: Post deleted, topic blocked

3. November 17: Osaka raises concerns

4. November 18: WTA questions email allegedly from Peng

5. November 19: WTA threatens to pull China tournaments

6. November 20: New videos and photos emerge

7. November 21: WTA deems evidence “insufficient”

Key Takeaways

1. Peng Shuai’s disappearance sparks international concern

2. WTA threatens to pull China tournaments

3. IOC favoirs “quiet diplomacy”

4. Chinese government remains silent

5. Peng’s case highlights broader human rights concerns in China

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Follow the latest developments in Peng Shuai’s case and the international response.

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