Emma Raducanu is reportedly set to be offered extra security at Indian Wells following her stalker ordeal last week.Â
On February 18, the British tennis star broke down in tears after spotting a man in the crowd who was demonstrating ‘fixated behaviour’ during her second round clash against Karolina Muchova in Dubai.
Raducanu was visibly upset and hid behind the umpire’s chair. The ‘fan’ was quickly ejected and his name has now been passed on to Wimbledon officials.
The 2021 US Open winner actually went on to push Muchova all the way before succumbing 6-7 (6-8) 4-6. That in itself was a huge credit to the 22-year-old after her frightening experience.
According to reports, that wasn’t the first time Raducanu met her stalker. The unnamed assailant had started talking to her the night before her match with Muchova.
Furthermore, he is also understood to have followed her around the globe at various events. Now, he is banned from all WTA events and has been issued a restraining order.
Emma Raducanu's fright when she realizes that a man who had approached her the day before in a public place in Dubai was attending her match against Muchova.
The man was fortunately arrested and banned from all WTA events.https://t.co/63jdBNQb8V
— We Are Tennis (@WeAreTennis) February 19, 2025
Emma Raducanu Security To Be Beefed Up At Indian Wells
An ex-US secret service agent is reportedly set to lead the Emma Raducanu security at Indian Wells next week alongside four others.
The event’s organisers hope their intended move will persuade Raducanu to particpate at the prestigious tournament in California.
Typically, players are usually escorted by a single security guard at events across the world. The WTA will always provide an extra layer of security if a player has been targeted in the past.
The measure of beefing up Raducanu’s security shows just how much the WTA is keen for Raducanu to participate at Indian Wells. The tournament only plays second fiddle to the four majors in terms of importance.
Away from the court, Raducanu will likely have security in place when she is travelling to and from the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. And also for social events such as if she decides to go for dinner.
Bob Campbell is the current WTA Tour’s vice-president of security. He spent two decades working as a United States secret service agent before switching to a security role for MLB.
Meanwhile, Raducanu’s French Open seeding hopes have taken a major boost after earning automatic entry into Indian Wells. Now, it’s done to the Briton to decide upon her participation.
