Peng Shuai: China uses state media to push narrative she's fine, WTA not convinced

In another attempt to assure the world that Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai is safe, two new video clips emerged on the social media platform. Hu Xijin, whose Twitter bio says he is editor-in-chief of the Global Times, posted clips to push a narrative that the tennis player is fine. However, the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Chairman and CEO, Steve Simon is not convinced.

The videos claimed that Peng was having dinner with her coach and friends. Now, the women tennis governing body says the videos were a "positive" sign, but there's no clarity whether the tennis player is free and able to make decisions and take actions on her own.

In the caption,Hu Xijin wrote, "I acquired two video clips, which show Peng Shuai was having dinner with her coach and friends in a restaurant. The video content clearly shows they are shot on Saturday Beijing time."

The video wasposted on social media and WION cannot take responsibility or independently verify the details.

In a statement, Steve Simon wrote, "I am glad to see the videos released by China state-run media that appear to show Peng Shuai at a restaurant in Beijing. While it is positive to see her, it remains unclear if she is free and able to make decisions and take actions on her own, without coercion or external interference."

"This video alone is insufficient. As I have stated from the beginning, I remain concerned about Peng Shuai's health and safety and that the allegation of sexual assault is being censored and swept under the rug. I have been clear about what needs to happen and our relationship with China is at a crossroads," he added.

How did all of this start? On November 2, Shuai had claimed in a social media (Weibo) post that China's former vice-premier Zhang Gaoli had "forced" her into sex during a long-term on-off relationship. Her post was deleted, without leaving any trace, but the entire incident led to a massive global outcry as thousands raised concerns, including top tennis players to ask "Where is Peng Shuai?".

Wimbledon organisers the All England Lawn Tennis Club, meanwhile, said in a statement: "We are united with the rest of tennis in the need to understand that Peng Shuai is safe."

"We have been working in support of the WTA's efforts to establish her safety through our relationships behind the scenes," the statement added.