WTA stops tournaments in China because of concerns over Peng Shuai.
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) announced on Wednesday that it will end important events in China immediately in light of concerns about the treatment of former doubles world champion Peng Shuai as well as the safety of other players.
The move to make the decision, which was welcomed by a lot of former and current tennis players and tennis players, could result in WTA U.S.-headquartered WTA hundreds of millions of dollars in sponsorship and broadcasting.
Peng’s location became a source of international worry after a three-week period of absence from public life following a post on social media in the early part of November, claiming that China’s then Vice-Premier Zhang gaoli had sexually assaulted her.
None of Zhang retired in 2018 and neither the Chinese government has commented on the allegation of Peng, and the subject is not available for any discussion on China’s restricted internet.
“I cannot think I could ask our athletes to play there when Peng Shuai’s not allowed to freely communicate and appears to have been forced to deny her claim of sexual assault.” WTA Chief Executive Steve Simon stated in an announcement.
“Given the present situation, I am worried about the potential dangers each of our players and staff would be exposed to if we decide to host events in China in 2022.”
The move comes in the midst of Beijing is getting ready to host this year’s Winter Olympics next February.
International rights groups and others have demanded an end to the Beijing Olympics because of China’s human rights performance.
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