Peng Shuai situation: ATP criticizes China for not postponing tournaments due to security concerns

The ATP, the governing body of professional men’s tennis, is being criticized for not following suit The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has led and canceled the championships in China. The WTA is working to respond to the treatment of Chinese player Peng Shuai.

The WTA said on Wednesday it was concerned about the dangers to players and staff if the tournament were held as planned in China, so it was concluded that the events would be suspended indefinitely. However, the ATP said it believes that “having a global presence gives us the best chance of making an impact”.

“Peng Shua’s situation continues to cause serious concern inside and outside our sport.” ATP President Andrea Gaudenzi said on Thursday, according to ESPN. “The response to these concerns has so far been brief. Once again we call for open direct communication between the player and the WTA to establish a clearer picture of his situation.”

A prominent tennis player has spoken out in public against the current ATP stance on the Peng situation.

Martina Navratilova, an 18-time Grand Slam winner, wrote on Twitter: “Do we understand that the ATP would make the same statement if the player were male? Somehow I think not.”

Andy Roddick, once the best men’s tennis player in the world, he said the ATP statement shows: “How to say a lot of words and say nothing.”

Peng Shuai’s security concerns were raised on November 2 after he was accused of sexually assaulting a senior Chinese official. then it disappeared from the public eye for three weeks.

Although the International Olympic Committee recently spoke to Peng in a video call, the WTA still has “serious doubts” that China is “free” and “safe.”

“Even though we know where Peng is now, I have serious doubts that he is free, safe and not under censorship, coercion and intimidation.” WTA Director General Steve Simon wrote in a statement. “The WTA has made it clear what is needed here, and we reiterate our call for a full and transparent investigation into Peng Shuai’s sexual assault allegations, without censorship.