Emma Raducanu has been the subject of serious safety concerns after a stalker attempted to secure Wimbledon tickets through the public ballot, despite being under a restraining order issued earlier this year. Security teams at the All England Club detected the man’s name during a final re-check of the ticket application list, prompting immediate action to block his access.
The restraining order had been issued in February in Dubai, where a disturbing incident occurred during Raducanu’s second-round match against Karolina Muchova. The man, described as a fixated admirer, was forcibly removed from the stands by police after Raducanu became visibly distressed. She later admitted that she had seen him in the crowd during the opening game and broke down in tears, struggling to continue the match. The day prior, the same individual had approached her in a coffee shop with a letter and request for a photo, and had also been seen at multiple other tournaments across Asia.
Raducanu has since opened up about the psychological impact of the stalking. Once a symbol of joy and triumph following her meteoric rise after the 2021 US Open, she now moves with caution. The experience has changed her daily routine and outlook, making her more vigilant in public spaces. She expressed how the situation affected her sense of freedom and emotional safety, explaining that she is rarely alone and constantly under supervision for her own protection.
This recent case is not isolated. A previous stalker was handed a five-year restraining order in 2022 after making an alarming journey on foot to her residence, further highlighting the ongoing challenges female athletes face regarding personal safety.
Concerns around player welfare extend beyond Raducanu. Fellow British player Katie Boulter recently revealed that she has been subjected to online abuse and threats, including being followed around London by an unknown vehicle. These disturbing incidents underscore a broader issue of harassment and intimidation that professional athletes particularly women can face, both online and offline.
In response, the All England Club has emphasized enhanced security for this year’s tournament. Measures include collaboration with the Metropolitan Police, international tennis tours, and various intelligence bodies. A key part of the security detail involves a team of fixated threat specialists tasked with identifying and addressing individuals who may pose risks to players.
Additional personnel from the police and military will be stationed throughout the Wimbledon grounds. Organizers are also offering personalized security protocols for players who express concern, ensuring they feel protected and supported during their time at the tournament.
The proactive steps taken signal a serious commitment to safeguarding athletes and maintaining the integrity and safety of the event. However, the incidents that led to these measures serve as a stark reminder of the personal vulnerability many public figures continue to face.
