Billie Jean King backs the WTA over Peng Shuai saying she is proud

The WTA has taken a sharp stance on the Peng Shuai stance and one of the most iconic tennis players of all time Billie Jean King is extremely proud of their fierce response.

No tennis-related organization has taken a sharper stance against the Peng Shuai stance than the WTA who suspended all WTA events in the country until the situation is resolved. The decision came after WTA CEO Steve Simon was unable to speak to Peng directly being only allowed to exchange e-mails. Simon publicly stated he believes they are fabricated hence the harsh reaction.

Speaking to Eurosport at the Sports Illustarted awards, Billie Jean King, the founder of what would end up being the WTA today said:

“I’m very happy the WTA stood for her. There will be a lot of challenges ahead of us, but standing up for human rights and abuse is really important. I founded the organisation in 1973, so I’m really proud of us."

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King was also happy to see many current former tennis players stand up a demand justice for Peng while adding she hopes that Peng is truly safe:

“I’m glad that the women are standing up for what’s right. The main thing is that she’s safe and I hope she’s all right.”

She was also glad to see many ATP tennis players demand justice as well noting that her longtime dream has been to unite tennis under one banner:

"I’ve always wanted men and women to be together in one association, that’s really my dream for us, it always has been. We should all work together to help our sport — also off the court – in a more powerful way, more meaningful way.”