Don't Forget: Chris Evert and the Tennis World Commemorate Peng Shuai as the WTA Tour Resumes in China After Previous Boycott
WTA
Chris
Evert, former world No. 1, recalled the Peng Shuai controversy on social media
amid the announcement of the return of WTA tournaments to China.
Former
world No. 1 Chris Evert doesn't forget the controversial case of Peng Shuai, a
prominent Chinese tennis player who disappeared in November 2021 after accusing
former Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli of sexual abuse on social media.
The Chinese
government initially claimed she was at home and safe, but the lack of evidence
and concerns about censorship and repression in China fueled the controversy.
As a result, the WTA decided to suspend tournaments in the country until
concrete proof of the tennis player's well-being emerged.
At that
time, the 18-times Grand Slam champion expressed her agreement with the
decision.
"Until
she sets foot in another country, I will continue to believe her freedom has
been taken away. Proud of Steve Simon and the @WTA for postponing tournaments
in China…" Chris Evert wrote in early 2022.
After weeks
of international pressure, Peng Shuai appeared in a video call with the
President of the International Olympic Committee. However, there are still
lingering questions about her actual freedom and safety.
Read also
Nevertheless,
the WTA decided to bring tournaments back to China, a move that garnered
criticism from fans. This time, it was Chris Evert who reposted a social media
post, reminding everyone about the case.
"The
Chinese swing is about to start. We should not forget about Peng Shuai. She
still can't speak freely or move out of China. It's crazy that these things
still happen in the 21st century," wrote some user on X (former Twitter.)
Other fans
joined in expressing words of support for Peng Shuai:
"Reminder
that we still don't know if Peng Shuai is living free from the CCP surveillance
and control, and that the tennis community essentially broke its promises to
boycott tournaments in China until being assured of her safety and well-being
#WhereIsPengShuai,"
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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