Wimbledon organisers have announced that security will be "a top priority" at this year's Championships, responding to a series of stalking incidents that have affected high-profile tennis players in recent months.
The All England Club's commitment to enhanced safety measures comes after several disturbing incidents involving British and international players. These include Emma Raducanu's stalking ordeal across four countries, verbal abuse directed at world No 1 Iga Swiatek during practice, and death threats received by Katie Boulter.
The heightened focus on player protection reflects growing concerns within the tennis community about the safety of athletes both on and off the court at major tournaments.
Wimbledon CEO Sally Bolton has emphasised that "the safety and wellbeing of all of the players is our absolute top priority" in response to recent security concerns.
Emma Raducanu has been dealing with a stalker as of late
Reuters
Bolton acknowledged the alarm generated by recent incidents, stating: "The recent incidents coming to light, we certainly recognise the concern generated by that."
She outlined the comprehensive security framework already in place at the Championships. "We have in place - and have had for many years - processes for ensuring the safety of our players."
These measures include collaboration with law enforcement agencies and specialist security teams, as well as coordination with both professional tours. Bolton confirmed that intelligence gathering continues throughout the year to ensure appropriate protective measures are implemented.
The incidents that have prompted these enhanced measures include Raducanu being pursued by a man displaying "fixated behaviour" across four countries. The situation reached a crisis point in Dubai when the 22-year-old was reduced to tears during her match against Karolina Muchova.
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Wimbledon Chiefs have outlined comprehensive security to keep the stars safe
PA
She was forced to hide behind the umpire's chair whilst the man was removed from the arena and subsequently issued with a restraining order.
Five-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek faced verbal abuse from spectators during a practice session at the Miami Open. Meanwhile, British player Boulter has revealed she has been subjected to death threats, highlighting the widespread nature of security concerns affecting players at various levels of the sport.
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Raducanu has spoken candidly about how the Dubai incident has transformed her approach to personal security. "I've definitely noticed a difference in how people are watching my back when I'm on the site [at tournaments]."
The former US Open champion admitted the experience has made her more cautious in her daily life.
"I'm obviously wary when I go out. I try not to be careless about it because you only realise how much of a problem it is when you're in that situation and I don't necessarily want to be in that situation again," she added.
Emma Raducanu has not been in the best form going into Wimbledon
PA
Despite the ordeal, Raducanu expressed confidence in her current support network, saying she feels "pretty settled" with "good people around me."
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