Peng Shuai
Find out whether Peng Shuai’s recent interview was scripted or not
The Peng Shuai saga has taken yet another drastic turn as the Chinese tennis star had her first interview recently ever since making sexual assault allegations against the former Chinese vice-president.
In the interview, Shuai seems to have cleared the air surrounding her allegations. She claimed that she never accused anyone of sexual assault. Yes, you read that right. Take a look at what she had to say in that interview (h/t: tennishead) :
“With regards to Weibo (Chinese social media website), it’s about my personal privacy … There’s been a lot of misunderstanding … There [should be] no distorted interpretation. First, I need to stress one point that is extremely important, I have never said or written that anyone has sexually assaulted me, I have to clearly stress this point.”
The interview has raised many eyebrows. Since it was Shuai who wrote almost a 1500 word article on her verified Weibo account to accuse Zhang Gaoli. It is worth noting that Shuai was absent from the public eye for a while which also raised a lot concerns over her health and safety.
This has forced people to think that the video might be scripted and forced upon. However, nothing can be said with certainty as the situation lacks evidence to back Shuai’s either two claims. This could very well be a move that was forced by the Chinese officials. In an attempt to clear the name of the former Vice-president.
Just like everyone else, the WTA is also unsatisfied with Shuai’s recent video which has raised even further questions over her well-being. In a statement released by the WTA, the organization made it clear that they were still not able to answer the concerns of her well-being.
Take a look at WTA’s statement below (h/t The Guardian)
“As we have consistently stated, these appearances do not alleviate or address the WTA’s significant concerns about her wellbeing and ability to communicate without censorship or coercion”
The video by no means proves that Shuai is communicating without any censorship which is a cause of concern. Many players and organizations have also raised their concerns over the situation. WTA earlier announced that they have canceled all their upcoming tournaments in the wake of the situation. It is yet to be seen what happens next but everyone can certainly hope that Shuai is healthy and her well-being is ensured.
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