Naomi Osaka has been one of the most prominent athletes who talked in support of Shuai Peng. The Chinese player “disappeared” after she posted a rather aggressive statement on the Chinese social media Weibo stating she was pressurized into sex by the former vice-premier of China, Zhang Gaoli. The post was promptly removed after 30 minutes and Shuai was not heard anymore with mounting concerns about her whereabouts.
Naomi Osaka posted the following message on Twitter.
“Hey everyone, not sure if you’ve been following the news but I was recently informed of a fellow tennis player that has gone missing shortly after revealing that she has been sexually abused. Censorship is never ok at any cost, I hope Peng Shuai and her family are safe and ok. I’m in shock of the current situation and I’m sending love and light her way. #whereispengshua
. #WhereIsPengShuai pic.twitter.com/51qcyDtzLq
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) November 16, 2021
According to Nikkei Asia, there is some censoring activity on Naomi’s Weibo account soon after. Apparently, all comments have been disabled even for posts not related to Peng.
Naomi Osaka in 2021
Now the world no.13, Naomi played her last match on the 3rd of September when she lost to world no.24 Leylah Annie Fernandez 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in the 3rd round in U.S. Open (draw).
Currently, during this season the Japanese has an overall 18-6 record. The Japanese has won 1 title at the Australian Open.
Shuai Peng in 2021
Ranked no.306, Shuai played her last match on the 21st of February 2020 when she capitulated to world no.102 Magdalena Frech 6-4 6-7(5) 6-0 in the qualifications in Doha (draw).
Currently, during this season the Chinese owns a composed 0-0 match record.
