The JOC began looking into the case last month but further details have yet to surface and the alleged victim currently remains unnamed.

"If the investigation reaches some conclusion, then we will make it public," a JOC source told state news agency Kyodo.

"We can't say anything now except that we are investigating."

The Japan Gymnastic Association is also conducting its own investigation and has promise to take disciplinary action if it is determined that physical abuse was used during training.

However, the sport's national governing body has claimed the JOC probe has stalled its own inquiry as it is protecting the identity of the informant.

"Our investigation is not proceeding because we are unable to interview the alleged victim, who has taken her complaint to the JOC," a senior official said.

An unnamed coach who has been questioned by the JOC added: "Whoever the whistle-blower is, it could be someone who quit the club, but within the club there are athletes who dislike their coaches.

"But regardless, I have never raised my hand to an athlete.

"I have no recollection of ever doing so."

This latest news comes at a troubled time for Japan, whose capital Tokyo is bidding to host the 2020 Olympics and Paralympics, following months of scandal at its national judo federation and after news broke this week that the Fukushima nuclear plant is leaking highly radioactive water.

The gymnastics abuse case will be the first probe carried out since the JOC established an office in March to hear complaints from athletes in the wake of the physical abuse scandal that rocked the All Japan Judo Federation (AJJF).

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