Missing Chinese tennis star reappears in public in Beijing

By JOE McDONALD
Associated Press

BEIJING (AP) — Missing tennis star Peng Shuai has reappeared in public at a youth tournament in Beijing, according to photos released by the organizer, as the ruling Communist Party tried to quell fears about her while suppressing information after she accused a senior leader of sexual assault. The posting by China Open management on the Weibo social media service made no mention of Peng’s disappearance or accusation she was sexually assaulted by a former Chinese leader. Peng was shown standing beside a court, waving and signing tennis balls for children. Dave Haggerty, the International Tennis Federation president, says the videos appear to be a positive step but the organization will continue to seek direct engagement and confirmation from Peng Shuai herself that she is safe and well.