WTA Resumes China Operations After 6-Month Standoff

Women's Tennis Association returns to China in 2023 under terms that ensure athletes' safety and autonomy but make limited progress regarding Peng Shuai sexual assault allegations.
The WTA received assurances from "people close to Peng" that she is safe, though her whereabouts and condition remain unclear.
The boycott cost tournaments tens of millions but maintained the WTA's reputation as an advocate for women; resuming play risks criticism of capitulation.
Tennis groups differ on China; the men's ATP tour and some national federations are returning, while the ITF demanded Peng's well-being be "verifiably ensured."
The WTA framed the reversal around athletes' interests but said it would continue pushing for Peng and women's rights in China.