Where is Peng Shuai? A timeline of events from the strange disappearance of a Chinese tennis star

The mysterious disappearance of Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai has led to a storm in the world after several professionals and celebrities from the Tennis Association have expressed concern. The 35-year-old woman has risen to the headlines since she had accused Zhang Gaol, the former deputy prime minister of the People’s Republic of China, of sexual harassment.

Here is a complete timeline of Peng Shua’s disappearance from the day he made charges against Gaol.

Tennis star Peng Shuai as a mysterious disappearance timeline

November 2

Peng Shuai, one of China’s most popular athletes, accused former Deputy Prime Minister Zhang Gaol of his sexual exploitation, including a screenshot of a social media message removed from the snow. Since then, Chinese sensors have removed allegations online and also blocked Peng’s Weibo account.

In a deleted message, Peng had written, “That afternoon I didn’t agree at all and I cried all the time. Why did you have to come back to me to take me home to force me to have sex with you? I couldn’t describe how disgusted I was, and how many times I asked myself, Am I still a human being?

November 3-13

Since the shocking allegations were made, Peng has not been seen in public and his whereabouts have not been revealed to the public. However, Chinese state-run media released a video of the 35-year-old restaurant in Beijing.

November 14

In response to the videos, WTA CEO Steve Simon made a statement

“I am glad to see the videos released by the Chinese state media that look like Peng Shuain in a Beijing restaurant. While it is positive to see him, it is still unclear whether he is free and able to make decisions and act alone, without coercion or outside interference.

This video alone is not enough. As I have said from the beginning, I remain concerned about the health and safety of Peng Shuais and the fact that the allegation of sexual violence is being censored and swept under the rug. I have been clear about what needs to happen, and our relationship with China is at a crossroads. “

November 15-17

Since the WTA issued its official statement, several tennis stars, including world number one player Novak Djokovic and women’s top star Naomi Osaka, have expressed concern.

Speaking to reporters, Djokovic said, “I heard about it a week ago. Honestly, it’s shocking that he’s missing, especially since it’s someone I’ve seen on tour quite a few times in previous years. It’s not that much more to say than to hope for him. is found and he’s ok. It’s awful … I can imagine his family feeling like he’s missing. “

Meanwhile, Osaka said: “Censorship is never okay at any cost, I hope Peng Shuai and his family are safe and fit. I am shocked by the current situation and I send love and light in his path.”

After Djokovic and Osaka, several other tennis stars have also questioned the silence of the Chinese media.

November 18-19

The U.S. human rights organization TheChinese Human Rights Defenders (CHRD) has also questioned the authenticity of the Chinese media. WTA President Steve Simon told CNN that the tennis federation could stop hosting tournaments in China if no detailed investigation is done.

20th of November

However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry is still silent on the disappearance of Shuai Peng. Their spokesman, Zhao Lijian, told reporters on November 20 that his disappearance “was not a diplomatic issue” and that he was not aware of the situation.

Meanwhile, according to the AP, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has repeatedly denied knowing the matter since the accusation was made about three weeks ago.

As China remained silent on the issue, his disappearance has become a political issue. U.S. President Joe Biden also expressed serious concern about Shua’s disappearance, and his press secretary, Jen Psaki, then spoke to reporters shortly thereafter.

“We agree with the Chinese authorities to provide independent and verifiable evidence of her whereabouts and that she is safe. First, all reports of sexual violence must be investigated, and we support a woman’s ability to speak and seek responsibility, whether here or around the world. Second “We continue to defend freedom of expression. And we know that the People ‘s Republic of China has zero tolerance for criticism and the record is to silence those who speak, and we continue to condemn these practices,” Psaki said.

At the same time, France has expressed similar concerns.

Shortly afterwards, the editor-in-chief of China’s state-run Global Times released a video showing Peng having dinner with the group. Stoge claims the video of the 35-year-old was filmed on November 20 according to the Beijing time zone.

November 21

Due to growing concerns about the disappearance of Peng Shua, IOC President Thomas Bach had a video call with Peng Shua to inquire about his health. According to a statement released after the IOC, the 35-year-old Chinese star is “safe and well.”

“I was relieved to see that Peng Shua was doing well, which was our main concern. She seemed to be relaxed. I offered her our support and communication at any time that suited her, which she apparently appreciated,” said Emma Terho, Chair of the Athletes’ Committee.

November 23

The latest development in this regard is that China has refused to call the mysterious disappearance of Peng Shui a political matter, despite allegations against former Chinese Premier Zhang Gaol.

Instead, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said at a news conference on Tuesday: “This is not a diplomatic matter. I think everyone has seen him recently involved in some public activities and also had a video call with IOC President Bach. I hope some people do so. Stop harmful jumping. , not to mention politicization. “

Due to the mysterious disappearance of Peng Shua, distrust of China and its state media will no doubt increase as the countries and their political leaders demand an impartial detailed investigation into the matter.