Updated:
Keep
The Association that governs the women’s tennis circuit has decided to take action and suspends all its tournaments in China. This was announced by the president of the WTA, Steve Simon, through a statement:
When on November 2, 2021, tennis player Peng Shuai wrote her allegation of having suffered an episode of sexual abuse by a high-ranking Chinese government official, the WTA noted that the tennis player’s message had to be heard and taken with seriousness. […] Since that time, Shuai’s messages have been removed from the internet and discussion of this serious matter has been censored in China. Although We know where Peng is, we have many doubts if she is free, if she is safe and not subject to censorship or intimidation.
The WTA wants a transparent and uncensored investigation into Peng’s allegation of sexual abuse, ”the message continues.
“With the full support of the WTA Board of Directors, I am announcing the immediate suspension of all WTA tournaments in China, including Hong Kong.”
– wta (@WTA) December 1, 2021
“That is why, with the full support of your executive committee, I am announcing the immediate suspension of all WTA tournaments in China, including those held in Hong Kong. In conscience, I do not know how I can ask tennis players to play these matches when Peng Shuai is not allowed to communicate freely and is apparently being dissuaded into contradicting her accusation of sexual abuse, “the statement continued.
“I am very sorry to have to get to this point. The Chinese and Hong Kong tennis community is full of good people that I have worked with over the years. They should be proud of your accomplishments, your hospitality, and your success. Nevertheless, if China does not take the steps we have demanded, we cannot put female players at risk and staff at tournaments in China. The Chinese government has left no other option to the WTA. I hope that our requests will be heard.
See them
comments
.
