a false statement issued by China?

PENG SHUAI. While a press release from Peng Shuai was published, the latter leaves doubts about its authenticity since the media which relayed it is a state channel.

Where is Peng Shuai? On social networks and in the world of tennis, concern continues to grow after the mysterious “disappearance” of the tennis player since her speech on November 2. As a reminder, it is on the social network Weibo (an equivalent of Twitter), that the tennis player Peng Shuai had posted a long text in which she claimed to have had, three years ago, a forced sexual relationship with the former Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli, who from 2013 to 2018 was one of China’s most powerful politicians. A few minutes later, the censorship had done its job by removing this message, but too late, many Internet users had time to take captures. The former world 14th winner of Wimbledon and Roland Garros in doubles, was worried in this message about the possible consequences of his act. “I know that thanks to your high rank as Deputy Prime Minister, you say that you are not afraid, but even if it is to throw an egg on a rock, even if I have to go to my ruin doing it, I’ll tell the truth about you, “the player said.

Since this message, the former world number 1 in doubles has not been found and is no longer speaking. The WTA, very discreet since the beginning of the case because of the close links with China for its financing, communicated Sunday, November 14. “We are waiting for this matter to be dealt with properly, which means that the allegations must be investigated fully, fairly, transparently and without censorship,” explained Steve Simon, boss of the WTA. The latter also asks that “justice be done”.

A false press release published?

Faced with this reaction, China was quick to react by issuing a statement from the player herself on Wednesday, November 17. Problem, the media which broadcast this release is the Chinese state channel CGTN, questioning the authenticity of the words. “Hello everyone, this is Peng Shuai,” the former 14th player in the world reportedly wrote, “regarding the recent WTA press release, it was released without my consent and without my being able to verify or confirm the content. The information, especially concerning the accusation of sexual assault, is false, said the player. I am neither missing nor in danger. I was just resting at home, everything is fine. Thanks again for hearing from me. “

Strange words which only increases the concern of the WTA. “The press release released today [mercredi] by Chinese official media regarding Peng Shuai only increases my concern for his safety and location. (…) I find it hard to believe that Peng Shuai actually wrote the email we received and that she could think of the words attributed to her ”.

The tennis world worried, shows its support on Twitter

Besides the WTA, many players are concerned about the fate of the tennis player. “Yes, these accusations are very disturbing. I have known Peng since she was 14, we should all be worried, this is serious, where is she? Is she safe? Any information would be appreciated,” responded. former American champion Chris Evert on Twitter.