Emma Raducanu has spoken out about a frightening stalking ordeal she experienced in Dubai.
The British tennis player, 22, was visibly upset during her match against Karolina Muchova last month when she noticed a man who had been persistently following her.
Raducanu had become aware of the individual’s “fixated behaviour” in previous locations, including Singapore, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. Prior to the Dubai match, he had given her a letter containing personal details and taken her photo at a cafe.
After returning to the UK for a week, Raducanu travelled to California to participate in the Indian Wells tournament, a major event in tennis.
Speaking before her match against Moyuka Uchijima of Japan, Raducanu shared details about her unsettling experience in Dubai.
She explained, “There were two instances, and the second one particularly alarmed me.”
“The first encounter seemed like a fan approach, but he mentioned following me from place to place and watched me in a coffee shop for some time. The second incident was genuinely concerning.”
Recounting her reaction during the match with Muchova, she said, “I was very shaken. I saw him at the beginning of the match and was worried about how I would even finish it.”
“I couldn’t see the ball clearly because I was crying. I could hardly breathe, and I was playing against Karolina, who is ranked in the top 20. It was incredibly difficult to focus.”
Raducanu mentioned that security has been increased, with two guards present during her press conference. She appreciates the heightened protective measures.
She added, “Indian Wells is my favourite tournament. If it were any other tournament, I’m not sure I would have played. But I am very glad I decided to come here.”
“Since arriving, I’ve felt much more myself and happier.”
Regarding her security, she stated, “I am always accompanied by someone who can alert others or assist if needed.”
“I am constantly aware and vigilant, and I rarely go anywhere alone. I am essentially chaperoned everywhere I go.”
Raducanu’s stalker was removed from the stands in Dubai after she alerted her team. He was subsequently arrested, but Raducanu chose not to press charges after he agreed to a restraining order.
He has been banned from attending all WTA events.
Raducanu has been practicing with Tommy Haas, the tournament director at Indian Wells and former professional player.
If she wins against Uchijima, she is scheduled for a second-round match against Coco Gauff.
Katie Boulter, the British No. 1 player, who also experienced threatening messages, offered her support to Raducanu, her Billie Jean King Cup teammate.
Boulter commented, “She is such a wonderful young woman, and it’s upsetting to see her go through something like this.”
“She is strong and will overcome this, but it’s a very unsettling experience that can make anyone feel insecure. It’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone.”
