WTA denies sexual assault claims against Chinese players via email

New Delhi, Nov 18, : Steve Simon, Chairman and CEO of Womens Tennis Association, has raised questions about an email attributed to Peng Shuai by Chinese state media.

It purportedly denied allegations that she had been sexually assaulted in a previous top Chinese politicianPeng was a Wimbledon doubles champion and the French Open winner.He accused Zhang Gaoli, Chinas former Vice-Premier, of sexual assault.Peng now claims that the accusations are false in an updated mail sent to Chinese media.

Chairman of the WTA Steve Simon said that the message only raised his concern about Peng’s safety.He said that he had doubts Peng Shuai wrote the email or believed what was being claimed to be her.He stated that the WTA and other world organizations need to see independent, verifiable evidence she is safe.Simon reiterated his belief that Pengs sexual assault allegations must be investigated with full transparency, and not censorship.

He said, "The voices and opinions of women must be heard and respected.Not censored or dictated to." The email was written in her voice, and it was published by CGTN.It claims that she is safe and not missing.Peng is a former No.Peng, a former No.1 doubles player had not heard from him since he posted an allegation regarding Zhang Gaoli (ex-Vice Premier) on Weibo Chinese social media platform in November.In a later disqualification, she claimed that Zhang forced her into having sexual relations with Zhang.

Zhang was the Vice Premier of China between 2013-2018 and was a strong ally to Chinas leader Xi Jinping.Since then, she has been unable to be seen or heard of publicly.

Peng has been questioned by many international tennis players.Novak Djokovic, the world number one tennis player said that he hopes Peng is okay.

Naomi Osaka also expressed concern about Peng’s safety.inj/bs #sexual #assault #Chinese #email #Delhi.