Serena Williams said the case of Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai “should be investigated” and urged people not to be “silent” about their well-being. Peng, 35, has not been heard since he accused a top Chinese government official of sexual harassment two weeks ago.
Chinese state media released an email attributed to Peng, but doubts were raised about its authenticity.
“I hope it’s safe and found as soon as possible,” Williams said.
Steve Simon, president of the Women’s Tennis Association. Peng Shuai the organization was prepared to withdraw its tournament from China if it was not satisfied with Peng’s reaction. “We are prepared to go out of business and deal with any complications that come with it,” Simon told CNN. “Because it’s for sure, it’s bigger than business. Women need to be respected, not censored.”
On Wednesday, Simon questioned an email released by Chinese state media, saying he was “only voicing concern” about Peng’s safety. Concerns about Peng’s well-being have risen since he. Said he was “forced” to have sex with former Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli.
The allegations were made in a post on the Chinese social media site Weibo on November 3 and were promptly removed from the Chinese internet. It is the first time such a motion has been made against one of China’s leading political leaders.
Williams is one of many prominent players to talk about Peng’s health. Brit Andy Murray, world number one Novak Djokovic, and four-time Japan winner Naomi Osaka. “I was devastated and shocked to hear the news,” said Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam individual winner.