The man who stalked British tennis player Emma Raducanu earlier this year has been caught attempting to acquire tickets for Wimbledon, as revealed by BBC Sport. This follows his restraining order issued after he exhibited troubling behavior at tournaments, including approaching Raducanu during a match in Dubai. Wimbledon’s security protocols successfully flagged the individual’s name, preventing his entry into the public ticket ballot.
Raducanu, who rose to fame after winning the US Open in 2021, is still dealing with the repercussions of such unsettling encounters. In February, during a match in Dubai, she had to hide in distress behind the umpire's chair after spotting the man in the crowd. Earlier, he had handed her a letter and requested a photo, actions which greatly unsettled the young athlete.
“Since that incident I have definitely got increased attention and greater security,” Raducanu stated following the traumatic event in Dubai. As a precaution, she has taken measures to ensure she is not alone during her public appearances, highlighting her heightened awareness of security.
Sally Bolton, chief executive of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), emphasized their commitment to security during the Wimbledon Championships. She noted the collaboration with law enforcement and security experts to address risks effectively, reassuring players of their safety on the premises.
Wimbledon’s security framework includes robust checks around ticketing, the involvement of specialized threat specialists, and the monitoring of crowd behavior through trained professionals. Enhanced surveillance and immediate response teams are also in place to handle potential incidents.
The focus on security comes amid a broader concern for player safety, especially as high-profile athletes face increased scrutiny and threats. Raducanu’s previous encounter with a stalker, which resulted in another individual receiving a restraining order last year, underscores the importance of constant vigilance and improvement of protective measures in professional sports.