Billie Jean King is proud of the WTA for supporting Peng Shuai during her troubled time of need.
Jean King is the founder of the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). The organisation supported and backed Peng for the troubles she went through because of China.
In response to the country not taking her situation seriously, the WTA took the extremely brave and inspiring decision to boycott all tournaments in China. It was a major statement of intent, and one that inspired women all over the world to stand up for they believe in.
Jean King revealed that she was proud of the WTA for supporting Peng during her time of need.
“I’m very happy the WTA stood for her,” she said, as quoted by Reuters.
“There will be a lot of challenges ahead of us, but standing up for human rights and abuse is really important.
Peng (pictured) has everyone in her corner but her country. Source: Getty Images
“I founded the organisation in 1973, so I’m really proud of us… I’m glad that the women are standing up for what’s right. The main thing is that she’s safe and I hope she’s all right.”
Support pouring in
Peng made a sexual assault accusation against the former Vice-Premier of China, Zhang Gaoli. The former doubles World No. 1 did not make a public appearance for three weeks after she posted her allegation on social media.
When Jean King was asked if she would like to see more support from the men’s group of players, she said, “That would be nice, I think we would like more support from the men.
“I’ve always wanted men and women to be together in one association, that’s really my dream for us, it always has been.
“We should all work together to help our sport — also off the court — in a more powerful way, more meaningful way.”
Read more: Tennis world left stunned as Peng Shuai goes missing following sexual assault accusation