"I'm in shock" - Naomi Osaka joins calls for info on missing China star Peng

Naomi Osaka posted a message of support for missing China tennis star Peng Shuai on Tuesday, writing that she was "in shock" and joining growing calls for information on the whereabouts of the former Wimbledon and French Open doubles champion.

Peng hasn't been seen in public since she accused former Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli of sexually assaulting her.

The 35-year-old posted a message on social media on November 2nd saying Zhang pressured her into sex when she visited him and his wife at their home for a dinner approximately three years ago.

Peng added that she later agreed to a secret affair with Zhang, who is reportedly 74 or 75 years old.

The post was quickly scrubbed from Chinese social media and the Chinese government has avoided commenting on the situation.

Former women's tennis stars Chris Evert and Billie Jean King have also expressed concern while men's world number one Novak Djokovic spoke out at the ATP Finals.

In a statement, WTA CEO Steve Simon said that Peng's allegations "must be investigated fully, fairly, transparently and without censorship".

IMAGE: AP