Scandal after questions about Peng Shuai

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At the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, Chinese tennis star Qinwen Zheng (20) wins her first round match against Alycia Parks (USA, 22) 6-4, 6-4. At the press conference that followed, she was repeatedly addressed about her compatriot Peng Shuai (37). At the third time, she is finally a little less evasive: “I didn’t talk to anyone about her during the tour, I’m usually alone with my team. But I think she’s doing very well in China and living a normal life. But I don’t know exactly, I’m focusing on myself.”

After the number 25 in the world spoke these words, a small scandal arose. A Chinese journalist turns to his colleagues and tries to correct his German colleagues: “I want to give you a tip: please don’t keep asking about Peng Shuai”. He doesn’t get any further, the tournament management intervenes and reprimands him. So much for press freedom in China.

China doesn’t want questions

Last week, the WTA announced that it would like to hold tournaments in China again. This was after an attempted boycott to pressure China over the Peng Shuai case. For the women’s tennis federation it is an outright defeat, the Chinese ignored every demand and did not answer questions. Even a meeting with the former world number one was not made possible.

The Shuai case became a big topic in November 2021 after the tennis player completely disappeared from view. Peng Shuai posted a statement on social media accusing former Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli of sexual assault. Shortly after, she retracted the allegation and the post was removed. The WTA and many Western media then expressed concern that Shuai was not safe in China. The Chinese government denies this to this day. (nsa)

Source : Blick