Peng, who had previously accused a Chinese government official of sexual assault last year has now backtracked. She said that she had never accused the official of sexual assault. This follows a period when Peng disappeared from the public eye for a few weeks.
The WTA said, “Her recent in-person interview does not alleviate any of our concerns about her initial post.
The organization’s chief executive and chairman Steve Simon added: “To reiterate our view, Peng took a bold step in publicly coming forth with the accusation that she was sexually assaulted by a senior Chinese government leader.
“As we would do with any of our players globally, we have called for a formal investigation into the allegations by the appropriate authorities and an opportunity for the WTA to meet with Peng, privately, to discuss her situation.
“We continue to hold firm on our position and our thoughts remain with Peng Shuai.”
Following her break from public appearances, Peng has been in attendance at the Beijing Winter Olympics.
Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee, also had dinner with Peng on Sunday. Bach had previously vouched for Pengs safety when she first disappeared in 2021.