British tennis star Emma Radukanu was seen in tears talking to the referee at a match at the Dubai Championships over an audience that “exhibited elaborate behavior” on Monday.
The incident occurred in Radukanu's second round match against Karolina Mciba. The broadcast caught a scary player standing in a small space between the back of a staff chair and the barrier net adjacent to Court 2.
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UK's Emma Ladukanu will return forehand to Poland's Iga Swaitek in the third round match at the Australian Open Tennis Championships held in Melbourne, Australia on Saturday, January 18th, 2025. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake, file)
There was no immediate explanation of what happened. The 2021 US Open winner ultimately lost in straight sets to Muchova, 7-6 (6), 6-4.
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) issued a statement on Wednesday regarding a security incident.
“Emma Radukanu was approached in public areas by a man who exhibited his staring behavior,” the organization said. “This same individual was identified in the first sequence during Emma's match at the Dubai Tax-Free Tennis Championship on Tuesday and was subsequently ejected.
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UK Emma Laducanu responded during a match against Amanda Anisimova in the United States in the second round of women's singles held at the 2025 Australia Open in Melbourne Park on January 16, 2025. Masu. (Mike Frey-Imagn image)
“Player safety is our number one priority and the tournament is advised on security best practices for international sporting events. The WTA has actively collaborated with Emma and her team to help her well-being. We ensure that we provide the support you need. And security teams around the world to maintain a safe environment for all players.”
Raducanu was hit by the global spotlight with an astounding grand slam victory as a teenager.
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UK Emma Laducanu celebrates during a match against Amanda Anisimova in the United States in the second round of women's singles held at the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 16, 2025 . (Mike Frey-Imagn image)
She was still a teenager when she was convicted of stalking her at her family home in 2021.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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