November 19, (THEWILL) – Serena Williams has expressed her concern over fellow tennis player Peng Shuai’s unexplained disappearance.
Peng had accused Zhang Gaoli, a former Chinese Communist Party vice-premier, of forcing her to have sex with him three years ago.
Her Weibo account has since been deactivated, and the 35-year-old player has not been seen or heard from. This has prompted fears about her safety and whereabouts from people all around the world, including professional tennis players.
Novak Djokovic, the men’s world number one, revealed at the ATP Finals on Monday that he was “shocked” that Peng had gone missing.
Chris Evert, Alize Cornet, Nicholas Mahut, and others have expressed their dissatisfaction with the situation. And WTA President Steven Simon said the claims should be investigated and that those in charge should “stop censorship” of the player.
Williams, a 23-time grand slam winner and former women’s world number one, has issued her own comment.
She tweeted: “I am devastated and shocked to hear about the news of my peer, Peng Shuai. I hope she is safe and found as soon as possible. This must be investigated and we must not stay silent.
“Sending love to her and her family during this incredibly difficult time. #whereispengshuai”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
