WTA still 'concerned' over Peng Shuai after new denial

WTA chief Steve Simon said on Monday the organisation maintained concern for the wellbeing of Peng Shuai after the Chinese tennis player issued a further denial of sexual assault allegations. Peng's fate has been shrouded in mystery since she alleged on social media in November that former Chinese vice-premier Zhang Gaoli forced her into sex during a years-long relationship. The post was deleted and Peng's whereabouts were unknown for three weeks, drawing worldwide concern for her safety. She has subsequently appeared at a handful of public events, and denies ever making the accusation against Zhang. On Sunday Peng gave an interview to French daily L'Equipe in which she once again denied making her initial allegations.

Read Also'Huge misunderstanding': Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai repeats sexual assault denial

Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai said she never accused anyone of sexual assault, according to an interview published on Monday, again walking back an allegation that sparked worldwide concern about her safety.

"I never said anyone had sexually assaulted me in any way," Peng said, insisting that her initial post had been the subject of a "huge misunderstanding" by the outside world. Peng was accompanied by Chinese Olympic Committee chief of staff Wang Kan during the interview with L'Equipe, which took place on the sidelines of the Winter Olympics. The WTA, which has suspended tournaments in China over the case, said in a statement on Monday it remained concerned over Peng's wellbeing. "Her recent in-person interview does not alleviate any of our concerns about her initial post from November 2nd," WTA chairman Simon said.

Read AlsoPeng Shuai meets IOC chief at Beijing Winter Olympics

The IOC said tennis player Peng,