ATennis fans are now allowed to wear t-shirts with the inscription “Where’s Peng Shuai?” at the Australian Open. The organizers of the Grand Slam tournament reacted to the criticism of the ban and took back their restriction. This was confirmed by tournament director Craig Tiley on Tuesday, as reported by the AP news agency. “If that’s what they want to do, that’s fine,” Tiley said. However, no one who intends to disturb the safety of the fans is welcome on the tennis court. Banners should remain banned, as reported by the Australian newspaper The Age.
Previously, the organizers had banned spectators from wearing t-shirts in support of Peng Shuai, pointing out that their ticket conditions did not allow political messages. Peng Shuai, the former world number one in doubles, published allegations of sexual assault by a top Chinese politician on the social network Weibo in early November. The post was deleted soon after.
Since then, athletes, politicians and human rights activists have expressed concern for their well-being. The women’s tennis organization WTA had always taken a clear position, called for clarification and withdrew from China with the tournaments. In public appearances, Peng later denied making any allegations.
