The world number two IGA Swiatek receives additional security at the Miami Open after being harassed by a spectator during his training. The problem occurs after the British player Emma Raducanu was targeted by a harasser during the Dubai Open last month. Media reports indicate that Swiatek was harassed verbally by a spectator, who has a history of online attacks against the player, during training on Sunday. “Security is an absolute priority. We are monitoring the network to take these types of problems. Constructive criticism is one thing, and threats, hate speech or even disturbance during training are another – that cannot be tolerated,” a spokesman for Swiatek told AFP.
“We reported the question to the tournament organizer, as well as to the WTA, who reacted immediately and took additional precautions, such as additional security, for which we are very grateful.
“Ensuring the safety of the players is crucial, they are at the center of the event, and it is our work to protect them,” added the spokesperson.
A spokesperson for Miami Open said: “We take the safety and security of all players and tournaments very seriously.
“We constantly assess all potential threats and take all measures to respond appropriately. To ensure the effectiveness of these efforts, we do not disclose the details of our security operations.”
The WTA refused to comment on the issue, questioning the investigations of the tournament organizers.
Swiatek, who beat Elina Svitolina from Ukraine on Monday, faces Alexandra Eala from the Philippines in her quarter -final on Wednesday.
Raducanu was distraught after a man then displayed a “fixed behavior” appeared at a seat on the verge of the court during his defeat against Karolina Muchova.
The man was escorted by security, later gave a prohibition order and forbidden to attend the events of the WTA tour.
(This story has not been published by NDTV staff and is automatically generated from a unionized flow.)
Subjects mentioned in this article
