On November 2, 2021, more than a year and two months ago, Shuai Peng published a statement on his social networks in which he spoke of sexual abuse accusing Zhang Gaoli, former vice president of the People’s Republic of China. The reaction of the organizations and of the tennis players themselves was not long in coming, all united by concern for Shuai Peng, who made no public appearances in the following days, despite his circle ensuring his well-being.
After a few statements and meetings, including the occasional interview that raised more suspicions in between, the WTA has decided to stop operating in China. A drastic decision that has a direct economic impact on the circuit, taken by the principles of the WTA, putting Shuai Peng’s safety first. Although it has been some time since everything broke out, concern for Peng remains present in the highest organ of women’s tennis, which is reiterated in a statement, clarifying that it wants to have a private meeting with her, as stated The Guardian.
The WTA is firm in its position
“There has been no change in the WTA’s position on returning to China and we have only confirmed our 2023 calendar leading up to the US Open. A return to the region will require a resolution of Peng’s situation in which she took a bold step by coming out publicly with allegations that she was sexually assaulted by a senior Chinese government official.
As we would all of our players globally, we have called for a formal investigation into the allegations by the relevant authorities and for an opportunity for the WTA to meet with Peng (privately) to discuss her situation.
We continue to stand firm in our position and our thoughts remain with Peng. The WTA is still working to find a solution. While we have always indicated that we are confident that we will be able to resume running WTA tournaments in the region, we are not compromising our principles to do so.
