Emma Raducanu revealed that she struggled to see the ball through her tears during last month’s Dubai WTA 1000 tournament after being targeted by a stalker. The British tennis star was shaken when a man displaying "fixated behavior" appeared courtside during her match against Karolina Muchova.
Security escorted the individual away, and he was later issued a restraining order and banned from attending WTA events. Following the distressing experience, Raducanu took time off before making her return at the Indian Wells tournament in California, where she remains determined not to let the incident disrupt her career.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Raducanu described the emotional turmoil she endured, admitting she initially felt overwhelmed and struggled to concentrate on the match. She recalled noticing the man early in the game and questioning whether she would be able to finish, as anxiety overtook her ability to focus.
Despite facing a top-ranked opponent in Muchova, she was barely able to see the ball or breathe, causing the first few games to slip away. After the match, she broke down completely, highlighting the deep impact the incident had on her. However, her love for the Indian Wells tournament played a crucial role in her decision to return to competition.
In light of her experiences, Raducanu emphasized the importance of security at tournaments, particularly given that this was not the first time she had been targeted by a stalker. She expressed concerns about vulnerabilities in player accommodations and remains highly vigilant about her surroundings.
As a precaution, Indian Wells organizers have implemented heightened security measures to ensure her safety. Raducanu acknowledged that these incidents have made her more alert, and she now avoids going anywhere alone, underscoring the lasting impact of such traumatic experiences.
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