A couple of weeks ago, we spoke about the mysterious disappearance of a Chinese tennis player that sparked interest and worry across the world. Associations, organisation, colleagues and others were hellbent on knowing she’s safe since there was no word or public appearance from her since a month, post sexual harassment allegations. We’re talking about Peng Shuai and you can read the back story here!
The United Nations had to step in and the USA was also very concerned, while the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) also threatened to pull out of China if they don’t hear from Shuai soon. Chairman and CEO Steve Simon made repeated attempts to connect with her directly but was unable to, despite talks with China.
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There were statements made that she’s okay and even photos posted of her whereabouts but no direct contact was made, and hence WTA has made the big decision of suspending activities in China and even Hong Kong. All the greats in the game have backed this decision including legendary female player Billie Jean King, and men’s top ranked player, Novak Djokovic.
The WTA has made this decision which will lose them billions of dollars but they’ve decided to be morally correct and do what’s better for the game, and not just for their pockets. Earlier at the start of Nov 2021, Shuai had accused a top Communist Party leader of sexual assault and her disappearance since then has people worried, with suspicion of some foulplay in the mix as well.
Late last month, the 35-year old was seen in a series of appearances with Chinese officials and with the president of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, as the Winter Olympics needs to come to Beijing in Feb 2022. However, Simon has taken a stand against the authoritarian Chinese government and decided to not host any tennis events in the region.
“While we now know where Peng is, I have serious doubts that she is free, safe and not subject to censorship, coercion and intimidation. If powerful people can suppress the voices of women and sweep allegations of sexual assault under the rug, then the basis on which the WTA was founded — equality for women — would suffer an immense setback. I will not and cannot let that happen to the WTA and its players,” he said.
Given the situation, Simon believes there’s a risk for other players and staff and management when events take place in China, and hence the decision to pull out. For more updates on the Peng Shuai situation, stay tuned to ReadScoops.com.
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