Australian Open organizers said on Sunday that Peng Shuai’s safety was their “primary concern” after a video emerged showing security guards banning spectators from wearing T-shirts in support of the Chinese player. “According to the conditions of entry on our tickets, we do not allow commercial or political clothing, banners or placards,” said a spokesperson for the Tennis Federation, Tennis Australia, which organizes the Grand Slam tournament.
“We continue to work with the WTA and the global tennis community to obtain further clarification on his situation and we will do everything possible to ensure his well-being,” added the Federation. Tennis Australia was pushed to react after a video posted on the internet showed security guards asking a spectator to take off her t-shirt which read “Where is Peng Shuai?” This question has been widely relayed, especially by top players, becoming a keyword on Twitter, to worry about the situation of Peng Shuai. Security officers also appear to have confiscated a banner.
The strong support of the WTA
Peng Shuai, 36, had not appeared in public for nearly three weeks in November after posting a lengthy message on Chinese social media Weibo in which she accused former Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli, 40, of his eldest, of “forced” sex during a relationship that lasted several years.
Her reappearances in public had not put an end to concerns about the former world No.1 in doubles, absent from the Australian Open. Players continued to inquire directly about Peng in order to be reassured about his safety. The WTA has been hailed for its firm support for the player, going so far as to suspend its tournaments in China.