Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai shared on social media that former Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli sexually assaulted her. Shortly after Shuai accused the government official, she did not post on her social media platforms for 3 weeks.
Her absence caught the attention of celebrities, lawmakers and tennis colleagues Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams. As curiosity grew about the player’s whereabouts, Shuai appeared for the first time in public on November 21 in Beijing, interviewing with the International Olympic Committee, according to IOC President Thomas Bach. Shuai confirmed she was safe.
The Women’s Tennis Association and the United Nations requested an investigation into Shuai’s allegations of sexual abuse.
Social media users have been reacting to the videos and photos of Peng that surfaced, demanding more proof that she is doing well and not being coerced by governmental officials. According to Reuters, China’s foreign ministry said people should stop the “malicious hyping” and “politicization” of Peng Shuai.
These digital demands arrive at a time when China is facing questions about the abuse of its citizens and countries threatening withdrawal from the Winter Olympics.
