Women's Tennis Association still concerned about Peng Shuai despite IOC call

The WTA has affirmed that it remains concerned about the safety of Peng Shuai, despite her apparent participation in a call with the International Olympic Committee.

The Chinese tennis player accused former vice premier Zhang Gaoli of sexual misconduct earlier this month and had not been heard from publicly for a number of weeks.

Stars such as Serena Williams and Andy Murray expressed their concern over Shuai's safety amid the radio silence, with a number of officials and fans also worried about her whereabouts.

However, Shuai is understood to have appeared safe and well during a 30-minute conversation with IOC president Thomas Bach over Zoom on Sunday.

The WTA remains unconvinced, though, saying in a statement: "[The videos] don't alleviate or address the WTA's concern about her wellbeing and ability to communicate without censorship or coercion.

"This video does not change our call for a full, fair and transparent investigation, without censorship, into her allegation of sexual assault, which is the issue that gave rise to our initial concern."

Peng - a three-time Olympian - boasts two singles titles and 23 doubles titles in a distinguished career.