A "fixated" man has been banned from all future WTA events after reducing British tennis player Emma Raducanu to tears during a match in Dubai.
The 22-year-old Brit was left terrified when the man, who had approached her in public on Monday, was spotted at her match against Karolina Muchova on Tuesday.
The incident led to the man's ejection from the venue after Raducanu pointed him out to the umpire just two games into the match.
Raducanu was visibly upset during the incident, crying and struggling to control her breathing.
Emma Raducanu was reduced to tears during the ordeal
The British player was seen hiding behind the umpire's chair as she sobbed.
She attempted to manage her distress during changeovers by placing a towel over her head to help control her breathing.
The incident occurred after the man had displayed what was described as "fixated behaviour" when approaching Raducanu in public the day before.
The WTA issued a statement confirming the individual was "identified in the first few rows" and "subsequently ejected" from the venue.
"He will be banned from all WTA events pending a threat assessment," the statement continued.
The tennis body emphasised that "player safety is our top priority" and said they were "actively working with Emma and her team to ensure her well-being."
The WTA issued a statement in support of Emma Raducanu
REUTERS
The WTA added they remain committed to working with tournaments and security teams worldwide to maintain player safety.
Despite the distressing incident, Raducanu attempted to continue playing but lost the match 7-6, 6-4 to Muchova.
After falling behind 4-0 in the first set, the British player showed resilience by forcing a tie-break.
Raducanu even had a chance to win the opening set, reaching 5-2 in the tie-break.
However, 14th seed Muchova found her best form in crucial moments to claim victory.
The match, delayed by rain, concluded at midnight in Dubai after two hours and seven minutes of play.
This is not Raducanu's first experience with concerning fan behaviour.
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Emma Raducanu lost the match in straight sets
SKY SPORTSIn 2022, Amrit Magar, 35, was given a five-year restraining order after visiting her South London home on three occasions.
Magar left unwanted gifts and cards, and stole items from the Raducanu family's porch.
At the time, Raducanu stated the incidents made her feel unsafe in her own home and "very apprehensive if I go out."
The stalker received an 18-month community order from Bromley Magistrates Court.
