The U.S. State Department said Monday it is "closely monitoring" developments regarding Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai, whose whereabouts have been in question after she accused one of China's former vice premiers of sexual impropriety.

"We share the concern that has been expressed around the world as we all want her of course to be safe," State Department spokesman Ned Price told a press conference, adding, "Rest assured we are closely following her and the situation."

The United States supports the ability of individuals to report sexual assault and believes that any allegation anywhere in the world should be investigated, Price said.