However, the interview was done in highly controlled circumstances. The BBC's China correspondent Stephen McDonell compared it to a propaganda exercise, saying it left more questions than answers. L'Equipe had to submit questions in advance, and the interview was conducted at the Winter Olympics under the presence of a representative from China's Olympic Committee who also translated her comments from Chinese.
Ms Peng told the outlet she was living a normal life - a line which has also been used by Chinese state officials about her previously. She also expressed thanks for the concern directed towards her.
