Emma Raducanu faces frightening moment after recognizing stalker in Dubai stands

During an unusual moment in the second-round match at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships between Emma Raducanu and Karolina Muchova, the British player suddenly halted her service motion. Overcome with visible distress, Raducanu approached the chair umpire, shedding tears and briefly hiding behind the umpire's chair — a scene that left the audience puzzled.

The reason behind this emotional interruption was later clarified. According to a statement from the WTA, Raducanu had spotted a man in the stands who had approached her the previous day in a public place and exhibited "obsessive behavior." Concerned for her safety, Raducanu informed the chair umpire, who promptly contacted tournament security. The individual was subsequently escorted out of the venue.

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In response, the WTA announced that the man would be banned from all its events pending a thorough evaluation of the potential threat he poses. "The WTA is actively working with Emma and her team to ensure her well-being and provide any necessary support," the organization stated. "We remain committed to collaborating with tournaments and their security teams worldwide to maintain a safe environment for all players."

Despite the unsettling incident, the match resumed shortly after. Raducanu fought hard but ultimately lost to Muchova in two sets, 7-6 (6), 6-4.

WTA statement on the security incident in Dubai:

On Monday, February 17, Emma Raducanu was approached in a public area by a man who exhibited fixated behavior. This same individual was identified in the first few rows during Emma’s match on Tuesday at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships and subsequently ejected. He will be banned from all WTA events pending a threat assessment.

Player safety is our top priority, and tournaments are advised on security best practices for international sporting events. The WTA is actively working with Emma and her team to ensure her well-being and provide any necessary support. We remain committed to collaborating with tournaments and their security teams worldwide to maintain a safe environment for all players.

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