Australian Open organisers said that Peng Shuai’s safety is our primary concern after video emerged of security staff preventing spectators wearing T-shirts in support of the Chinese player.

Peng Shuai is absent from the Grand Slam after she alleged online that she had been sexually assaulted by a Chinese former vice-premier. “Under our ticket conditions of entry we don’t allow clothing, banners or signs that are commercial or political,” said a spokesperson for Tennis Australia.