Emma Raducanu will return to competitive tennis next week at Indian Wells with enhanced security measures following a stalking incident in Dubai.
The 22-year-old former US Open champion will have up to five security staff forming a protective ring around her during the tournament.
The British No.2 was left visibly unsettled after being approached by a man who had followed her across multiple tournaments.
Her stand-in coach Roman Kelecic revealed the man had followed her to tournaments in Singapore, Abu Dhabi and Doha before approaching Raducanu in an onsite cafe in Dubai.
Emma Raducanu has beefed up her security ahead of Indian Wells
Reuters
During her match against Karolina Muchova, Raducanu appeared distressed and briefly sought cover behind the umpire's chair upon spotting the individual in the stands.
Despite the unsettling encounter, she chose not to press charges after the man was detained.
He has since been banned from future events and given a restraining order.
The Bromley-based star was shaken by the incident and considered taking a break from the game.
Instead, she will travel to California with enhanced security measures in place.
Up to five security staff will form a secure ring around her when she walks to and from court for practice and matches.
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The same protection will be in place when she signs autographs.
The show of force aims to reassure both Raducanu and other competitors that the tournament will be a safe zone.
After the incident in Dubai, Raducanu shared on Instagram: "Thank you for the messages of support. Difficult experience yesterday but I'll be okay and proud of how I came back and competed despite what happened."
The WTA stated: "Player safety is our top priority. The WTA is actively working with Emma and her team to ensure her well-being and provide any necessary support."
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Emma Raducanu was left terrified by the fan ordeal
PA
Raducanu will travel to the tournament with her physical trainer Yutaka Nakamura and interim coach Tom Welsh.
Her search for a new full-time coach is continuing.
The British player had been considering a longer break from tennis following the incident.
However, she has decided to stick to her schedule and compete in one of the most prestigious tournaments on the calendar.
The BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells - often referred to as the "fifth Major" - will start on Wednesday, 5 March.
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Emma Raducanu broke down in tears in Dubai after spotting the fan in the stands
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The prestigious tournament will run until 16 March.
It marks Raducanu's return to competitive action following the troubling experience in Dubai.
The enhanced security measures are expected to be in place throughout her participation in the California event.
