THE WTA has taken the extraordinary step in pulling all of its tournaments out of China and Hong Kong, in response to the continuing saga surrounding Chinese star Shuai Peng.

China was due to be the host of several tournaments in 2022, including the WTA Tour Finals.

This move is in response to the continuing saga surrounding the whereabouts and safety of Peng.

Early last month, Peng published a social media post with sexual assault allegations against former Chinese Vice President Zhang Gaoli.

Chinese officials promptly deleted the post. She has not been sighted in public since.

Chinese syndicated media reported she had been seen in China, and had a video call with the IOC Chairman Thomas Bach. There is skepticism surrounding the call though, as only a photo of the call was published. No videos or transcripts of the call have ever been released.

The IOC claim they have had a second call with Peng, but this has not allayed many fears. In a statement distributed by the WTA Tour, its chairman and CEO Steve Simon criticised the Chinese government for not addressing the situation seriously enough.

“Unfortunately, the leadership in China has not addressed this very serious issue in any credible way,” he said.

“While we now know where Peng is, I have serious doubts that she is free, safe and not subject to censorship, coercion and intimidation. “The WTA has been clear on what is needed here, and we repeat our call for a full and transparent investigation – without censorship – into Peng Shuai’s sexual assault accusation.”

Chairman of the ATP Andrea Gaudenzi also released a short statement on the situation.

“The situation involving Peng Shuai continues to raise serious concerns within and beyond our sport. The response to those concerns has so far fallen short. We again urge for a line of open direct communication between the player and the WTA in order to establish a clearer picture of her situation.”

“We will continue to consult with our members and monitor any developments as this issue evolves.”