“Meaningless Words”: Andy Roddick reprimands ATP for releasing a vague statement on the Peng Shuai case
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Andy Roddick and Peng Shuai
China, known for blatantly abusing human rights is finding it tough to tackle the Peng Shuai issue. Despite several attempts to convince the world of her well-being, the general public has not favored them, and rightly so. Right from the White House to the European Union, all are putting China’s Communist Party under pressure to do the needful.
Fearing a global boycott, China came out with a number of solutions to put an end to this controversy. They issued a letter, allegedly written by Peng to the WTA Chairman. Moreover, they also organized a video call between Peng and Thomas Bach which was also not accepted as credible evidence by many. Moreover, the WTA in its latest statement announced that all tennis in China will be suspended until Peng’s well-being is assured.
“We urge for a line of open direct communication between Peng and the WTA : ATP Chairman
When WTA made its stance crystal clear, it was expected that ATP will take the necessary steps. However, ATP issued a very vague statement regarding the Peng Shuai case. They emphasized open direct communication between Peng and the WTA and didn’t announce any suspension.
“The situation involving Peng Shuai continues to raise serious concerns within and beyond our sport. The response to those concerns has so far fallen short. We again urge for a line of open direct communication between the player and the WTA in order to establish a clearer picture of her situation,” the ATP’s statement read.
As a result, many tennis fans and players called ATP out for not taking a firm stand on the serious issue. Former World No. 1 Andy Roddick also took to Twitter to reprimand ATP. He wrote, “how to say a lot of words and say nothing,” tagging the ATP Chairman’s official statement.
The Peng Shuai issue is gaining global attention and in order to ensure that the blatant abuse of power in China is stopped, it is indeed essential to keep the pressure on the authorities. However, a soft approach like ATP has taken might allow breathing space for the Chinese Communists Party.
Also read: “China & Human Rights Abuse”: The Peng Shuai Story tells the reality of the Communist Party in China
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Shubham Bhargava
(1813 Articles Published)