Peng Shuai: IOC reveals second video call with Chinese tennis player before “face-to-face meeting”

The International Olympic Committee has revealed that they have been in a second video call with Chinese tennis player Peng Shua for constant concern for his well-being.

There has been widespread concern since Peng, a former world number one, disappeared from the public after accusing China’s top authority of sexual harassment.

IOC President Thomas Bach had a 30-minute conversation with Peng in November stating that he had told him he was “safe and well,” although he was criticized for not providing further evidence that he was speaking of his own free will.

On Thursday, the governing body revealed that a second invitation had taken place with a “face-to-face meeting” scheduled for January.

“We share the same concern for the well-being and security of Peng Shui as many other people and organizations,” the statement said. “That’s why the IOC team had another video call with him just yesterday. We’ve provided him with extensive support, kept in regular contact with him and have already arranged a face-to-face meeting in January.

“There are different ways to achieve his well-being and security. We have taken his situation very human and person-centered. As a three-time Olympic winner, the IOC is addressing these concerns directly with Chinese sports organizations.

“We use‘ silent diplomacy ’, which, given the circumstances and the experience of governments and other organizations, is the most promising way to make effective progress on such humanitarian issues.

“The IOC’s efforts led to a half-hour video conference with Peng Shuai on November 21, during which he explained his situation and appeared safe and well, given his difficult situation.

“This was confirmed in yesterday’s call. Our people- and person-centered approach means we remain concerned about his personal situation and will continue to support him.”

The news of the invitation comes a day after the Women’s Tennis Association confirmed that it has suspended all Chinese tournaments due to the current situation.

CEO Steve Simon revealed fears for the safety of players and staff by suspending events in China – a move that could have an impact on the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympics.

“Even though we now know where Peng is, I seriously doubt if he is free, safe and not subject to censorship, coercion and intimidation,” Simon said.

“The WTA has made clear what is needed here, and we reiterate our call for a full and open investigation – without censorship – into Peng Shua’s sexual violence.

“None of this is acceptable and cannot be accepted. If powerful people can stifle women’s voices and sweep accusations of sexual violence under the rug, the establishment of the WTA – equality for women – will suffer a huge setback. I will not and cannot allow it to happen: and its players.

“As a result, and with the full support of the WTA Board, I announce the immediate suspension of all WTA tournaments in China, including Hong Kong.”

Peng’s situation has brought about a rare unity in tennis, and now the focus is on whether the ATP and the International Tennis Federation – which runs tournaments at lower levels of the game – follow the example of the WTA.

The world’s number one player in the world, Novak Djokovic, supported the ban and said: “I fully support the WTA’s position because we don’t have enough information about Peng Shua and his well-being, and his health is extremely important to the tennis community.

“We don’t have enough information, and I think it’s a very bold, very bold attitude from the WTA.”