Beijing: The International Olympic Committee of President Thomas Bach will meet Chinese Tennis players Peng Shuai in the ‘Closed loop’ Beijing Olympics, he said on Thursday.
The welfare of Peng, the former world number one double player, became a problem that was a concern in November when he accused the social media that former Chinese Premier representative, Zhang Gaoli, sexually attacked him.
Closed loops are zones all game participants are limited to avoid the spread of Koronavirus infection in Beijing.
The game is officially open on Friday.
Last month the Peng said he never accused anyone who did sexual harassment and that the post he made had misunderstood.
Zhang hasn’t commented on this problem.
IOC has held several video calls with Peng in the last weeks and Bach said the planned meeting will continue in the February 4-20 match.
“We know from the explanation …
that he lives in Beijing, that he can move freely, spend time with family and friends,” Bach said at a press conference.
“Now we will be able to take the next step in a personal meeting to convince us overall the welfare and state of his mind.” Bach said if the Peng wants his accusation to be investigated, he will support him.
“If he wants to have questions, we will also support it in this matter.
But this is his life, it is his accusation,” said Bach.
“We will know more about physical integrity and mental state when we meet directly with him.” IOC has several phone calls with players in recent months but international concerns for their safety and welfare have not happened.
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has suspended a tournament in China because of its concern for Peng Safety.
China hasn’t directly commented on the initial post.
But said after the WTA movement “opposed sports politicization”.