In an interview with French newspaper L'Equipe at a hotel in Beijing, Peng says: 'I never said anyone had sexually assaulted me in any way.'

Olympics chief Thomas Bach promises the governing body will support an inquiry if requested by Peng.

Tournament organisers say Peng's safety was 'our primary concern' after video emerged of security staff appearing to order spectators to remove shirts and a banner in support of the Chinese player.

Peng's well-being became a matter of concern when she appeared to allege that a former Chinese vice premier, Zhang Gaoli, had sexually assaulted her in the past.

Following a global outcry, including from tennis superstars and the United Nations, Chinese state media reporters have released a flurry of footage purporting to show all is well with Peng.