Emma Raducanu 'offered five extra security guards' as former secret service agent steps in after Dubai terror

WATCH NOW: Sports round-up with Emma Raducanu offered extra security

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 25/02/2025

- 09:52

The 22-year-old was recently reduced to tears during a match

Indian Wells Open organisers have offered Emma Raducanu up to five extra security guards following her recent stalking ordeal in Dubai, according to reports.

The prestigious Californian tournament, which begins next week, is making special arrangements to ensure the British star's safety and participation.


The Times say the WTA 1000 event, second only to Grand Slams in importance, is keen to have Raducanu, 22, on board despite her harrowing experience at last week's Dubai tournament.

In Dubai, Raducanu was reduced to tears and sought hiding on court after spotting a man displaying concerning behaviour in the crowd.

Emma Raducanu

Indian Wells Open organisers have offered Emma Raducanu up to five extra security guards following her recent stalking ordeal in Dubai

SKY

The individual had already approached her once that week, showing signs of 'fixated behaviour'.

Following the incident, the man was detained by UAE police and issued with a restraining order.

Despite this distressing experience, Raducanu is reportedly determined to compete at Indian Wells and move forward from the incident.

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Emma Raducanu

Emma Raducanu was reduced to tears in Dubai after spotting a man displaying 'fixated behaviour'

SKY

Security arrangements at Indian Wells will be overseen by Bob Campbell, the WTA Tour's vice-president of security.

Campbell brings extensive experience, having served as a secret service agent from 1983 to 2003.

He notably held a prominent role during Bill Clinton's presidency before transitioning to sports security with Major League Baseball.

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Campbell joined the WTA in 2013 and has a track record of protecting some of the world's most targeted individuals.

The scale of the stalking became apparent through comments from Roman Kelecic, Raducanu's temporary coach.

"This man followed her to Singapore, to Abu Dhabi - where I was with her - again in Doha, now in Dubai and we noticed him," said Kelecic.

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He revealed the situation escalated from what initially seemed harmless.

"Initially we thought he was a fan until he got physically close to her, started having contact in the form of selfies, hugging," Kelecic explained.

Raducanu has since dropped legal charges against the stalker in the United Arab Emirates.

Emma Raducanu

Emma Raducanu pictured at Indian Wells last year

GETTY

The decision came after the man signed a formal undertaking to maintain distance from her.

The WTA has taken additional measures, banning the individual from attending future tournaments.

These developments, combined with the enhanced security measures at Indian Wells, aim to ensure Raducanu can compete safely at upcoming events.