In a recent incident at the Miami Open, tennis star Iga Swiatek received additional security measures when a man, who had been sending her threatening messages on social media, verbally accosted her during practice. “We keep a close eye on these situations. Constructive criticism differs from threats or disturbances, which should not be tolerated,” Swiatek’s team explained in a Wednesday statement. “We immediately informed the tournament organizers and the WTA, who acted swiftly and provided extra security for Iga, for which we are grateful.”
This event, initially reported by BBC Sport, comes shortly after Emma Raducanu faced a similar scare at the Dubai Championships. A stalker was removed during her match, emphasizing the increasing concern over player safety. Swiatek’s team stressed the importance of safeguarding the players. “They are at the heart of the event, and it’s our responsibility to shield them,” they stated.
Despite the unsettling incident, Swiatek, ranked No. 2, was defeated by wildcard entrant Alexandra Eala in the tournament’s quarterfinals. When questioned if the security breach affected her preparation, Swiatek replied it was not a factor. The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) reaffirmed its commitment to player safety, working closely with tournaments to implement best security practices for international sporting events. “The safety of players and all attendees is paramount,” the WTA noted, though they did not elaborate on specific security measures.
The Miami Open expressed their serious stance on safety measures, continuously assessing threats and adjusting responses as needed, albeit without providing specific details. Raducanu, recalling her ordeal in Dubai, was visibly shaken when a previously encountered stalker spectated her match. This individual was ultimately removed and detained by authorities. Last year, Raducanu had secured a restraining order against a fan who visited her home multiple times.
Ensuring a safe environment for players and audiences remains a priority for both the WTA and tournament organizers, as these high-profile incidents underscore the need for stringent security protocols.