The White House is seeking “independent, verifiable proof” on her location, said press secretary Jen Psaki.
The White House said Friday that it was seeking answers on the disappearance of Chinese professional tennis player Peng Shuai, adding to the growing list of parties worried about her well-being. Concerns about the 35-year-old’s safety were raised after she wrote a blog post on November 2 that accused former Chinese vice premier Zhang Gaoli of sexually assaulting her three years earlier. Peng has not been seen in public or made any posts on social media since the accusation was made. Chinese state-run media deleted her blog post and has reportedly censored all news about the incident in the country. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said that President Joe Biden and his administration were “deeply concerned” about Peng’s disappearance, and were fearful for her safety. She stated that China should provide the world with “independent, verifiable proof” of the tennis player’s location and condition. “[Any] report of sexual assault should be investigated and support a woman’s ability to speak out and take accountability,” Psaki added during a briefing in the White House press briefing room.
