Increased Security in Tennis Following Stalking Incidents

Wed Oct 22 2025 23:46:05 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Emma Raducanu's experience with a stalker sheds light on security measures at major tennis events, especially at Wimbledon.

The disturbing incident involving British tennis star Emma Raducanu, who faced stalking issues prior to Wimbledon, highlights the increased focus on security in the sport. The All England Club has fortified their measures to ensure player safety, reflecting a growing concern over athlete protection.

The man who previously stalked British tennis star Emma Raducanu is back in the spotlight, having attempted to secure tickets for the upcoming Wimbledon Championships. The All England Club's security protocols recognized his name, which is on a restraining order list, and promptly prevented his entry into the public ballot for tickets.

Earlier this year, Raducanu found herself in distressing circumstances during the Dubai Tennis Championships when she spotted the same man in the audience, leading to his removal from the venue by local police. The incident had unfolded a day earlier when he approached her in a coffee shop, handing her a letter and requesting a photograph, actions that had unsettled the young champion. Following these encounters, Raducanu experienced significant anxiety during her match, breaking down in tears and requiring time to compose herself.

In light of these events, the 22-year-old Raducanu voiced her concerns in interviews, expressing how such incidents could be handled better. She emphasized the necessity for increased awareness and vigilance regarding her personal safety. Since then, her security arrangements have been enhanced, and she now often travels with companions, ensuring she's rarely alone in public settings.

Raducanu's case is not the only instance of athlete stalking within tennis circles. Another individual received a long-term restraining order after walking an alarming distance to reach Raducanu's residence. The severity of the issue has prompted a comprehensive response from tennis authorities, especially ahead of significant tournaments like Wimbledon.

Sally Bolton, the chief executive of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, asserted their commitment to player safety, stating that they collaborate closely with various security agencies and the Metropolitan Police. With an estimated 1,000 personnel involved in the security operation, the Championships this year have rigorous checks in place, from entry screenings to the presence of specialized security teams trained to monitor behavior and respond to threats.

In the wake of heightened awareness surrounding athlete safety, Wimbledon has strengthened its security architecture. This includes advanced CCTV systems, trained fixated threat specialists, and vigilant personnel stationed around the venue, all converging to create a protective environment for players as they compete under the spotlight.