PENG Shuai’s safety is a “primary concern”, said Australian Open organisers, after a clip emerged of security staff preventing spectators from wearing T-shirts in support of the player.

The former doubles world number one is absent from the Grand Slam, and there are fears for her well-being after she alleged online last year that she had been sexually assaulted by a Chinese former vice-premier.

Her claim was swiftly censored and the 36-year-old was not heard from for nearly three weeks, before reappearing in public in China. But there are still concerns as to whether she is really free.

Top players said they hope to hear directly from Peng, so they can be assured of her safety.

But a clip posted online appears to show a firm line being taken against people wearing T-shirts saying “Where is Peng Shuai?” at Melbourne Park.

The question has been widely used as a viral hashtag on Twitter, including by top players, to spread the word about the Chinese player’s apparent predicament.

The footage also appears to show Australian Open staff removing a banner.

“Under our ticket conditions of entry, we do not allow clothing, banners or signs that are commercial or political,” said a spokesman for Tennis Australia, who organises the Grand Slam.

“Peng Shuai’s safety is our primary concern.

“We continue to work with the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and global tennis community to seek more clarity on her situation and will do everything we can to ensure her well-being.”

The WTA has been widely lauded for its stance on Peng, demanding to hear from her directly and suspending tournaments in China. – AFP, January 23, 2022.