Novak Djokovic’s PTPA praised the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships for the way they handled Emma Raducanu’s stalker but also underlined that such situations remain a bigger issue in the lower-tier events, while also adding that tournaments must do everything they can to ensure a player’s safety.
After the British tennis star complained about a man she identified as a stalker and started crying on the court, the organizers instantly reacted and that person was escorted out of the stadium.
It didn’t take long before the WTA also reacted, banning the stalker from attending all WTA tournaments.
And the Dubai organizers fully supported that decision and made themselves available for Raducanu in case she needed any help.
In a statement posted on social media on Wednesday, the 2021 US Open champion acknowledged that the reaction to her complaint was a swift one and expressed her gratitude to everybody who helper her or showed support.
Djokovic’s PTPA: We comment the Dubai security team but this remains a pervasive issue
“Tennis players and professional athletes worldwide must be able to focus on their jobs — training and competing — free from fear of harassment or abuse.
“The recent high-profile incident in Dubai, where security swiftly removed a disruptive fan from a top player during a premier tournament, underscores a pervasive issue.
“Such disturbances are not confined to elite events; they also occur with unsettling regularity at lower-tier tournaments, exacerbated by the influence of online betting.
“We commend the Dubai security team’s efforts, and we recognize the lingering toll these kinds of incidents take on players’ performance and welfare.
In their statement, the PTPA also underlined that: “Governing bodies and tournament operators alike must remain vigilant with player security, ensuring there are appropriate mechanisms in place to immediately assess and address any potential threats.”
Also, the PTPA added that the safety of players is one of their top priorities and that they are constantly seeking ways to help ensure that.
Tennis World USA