Peng Shuai’s L’Equipe interview ‘does not alleviate any concerns’ according to WTA boss Steve Simon - and he continues to stand by the Tour’s decision to pull tournaments from China.
Peng, a former doubles world number one, alleged in a message on Weibo that China’s former vice premier Zhang Gaoli had sexually assaulted her. She was then not seen in public after the allegation, leading to her wellbeing becoming an international concern.
The Chinese state have since released an email, photos of Peng at events looking happy and organised a video call with International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach to prove her safety. Peng’s latest public appearance has been met with a great deal of scepticism, particularly after she downplayed fears for her well-being.
