Mr Simon said he was worried for Ms Peng’s safety and had doubts after the WTA received an email, also released by a Chinese state media outlet, in which Ms Peng was said to deny the sexual assault allegations.

“The WTA and the rest of the world need independent and verifiable proof that she is safe,” Mr Simon said.

“Peng Shuai must be allowed to speak freely, without coercion or intimidation from any source.

“Her allegation of sexual assault must be respected, investigated with full transparency and without censorship.”

In an interview with Time Magazine, Mr Simon said there could be repercussions for tennis in China should the country not respond.