Emma Raducanu was left distressed and in tears after spotting a man exhibiting “fixated behaviour” among spectators during her second-round match at the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Security sources believe he is the same individual who had approached her at her hotel days earlier to hand her a letter.
Raducanu, visibly shaken, hid behind the umpire’s chair before security intervened and removed the man.
She later composed herself to continue playing but has since flown back to London.
Authorities are taking the incident seriously, with increased security measures expected at future tournaments, including Wimbledon and the French Open.
The WTA has banned the man from all events pending a threat assessment, and British tennis authorities have reiterated their commitment to player safety, especially for female athletes.
Raducanu, who previously faced stalking incidents, thanked supporters and assured fans she would be okay despite the frightening ordeal.
