Raducanu breaks down in the middle of a match after harassment episode in Dubai

The tennis world was stunned on Tuesday during the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, a WTA 1000 event, when Emma Raducanu stopped her match against Karolina Muchová while trailing 0-2 in the first set.

Emma Raducanu causes confusion by halting Muchova match

After losing her service game, Raducanu approached the chair umpire, broke down in tears, and hid behind her chair, leaving everyone puzzled about what was happening.

Muchová approached the chair umpire to inquire about the situation. Upon learning what had occurred, the Czech player went over to console her opponent, who remained hidden behind the umpire’s chair while tournament security escorted a male spectator out of the stands.

After receiving support from Muchová and the chair umpire, Raducanu returned to her chair in tears, which she wiped away with a towel before resuming the match. She ultimately lost 6-7 (6), 4-6.

WTA explains Raducanu’s tearful breakdown

On Wednesday, the WTA provided more details about the incident, stating Raducanu had been harassed by the same spectator the previous day and during the early moments of the match.

“On Monday, February 17, Emma Raducanu was approached in a public area by a man who exhibited fixated behavior. This same individual was identified in the first few rows during Emma’s match on Tuesday at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships and subsequently ejected. He will be banned from all WTA events pending a threat assessment.”

In their statement, the WTA emphasized that player safety is their top priority and that they will continue to work with tournaments to ensure the best possible environment for players.

“Player safety is our top priority, and tournaments are advised on security best practices for international sporting events. The WTA is actively working with Emma and her team to ensure her well-being and provide any necessary support. We remain committed to collaborating with tournaments and their security teams worldwide to maintain a safe environment for all players.”

Original article written by Jesús Mariano Martín, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Roddy Cons.

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