‘I could barely breathe’ – Emma Raducanu reveals terrifying message from stalker that had her worried

The world of professional tennis, often perceived as a realm of glamour and athletic prowess, can also be a stage for deeply unsettling personal experiences. For Emma Raducanu, a rising star whose talent has captivated audiences globally, a recent tournament became the backdrop for a harrowing ordeal. A sense of unease turned to palpable fear as she found herself the target of a stalker, an experience that left her shaken and deeply concerned.

The incidents occurred during a recent tournament, where an individual’s persistent and unwanted attention escalated to a level that caused significant distress.¹ The atmosphere, typically charged with the energy of competition, was tainted by a sense of vulnerability. Raducanu, speaking candidly about the experience, described the emotional impact, saying, “I could barely breathe.” Those words, raw and visceral, convey the sheer terror she felt.

The unsettling encounters didn’t remain confined to the periphery. The individual managed to approach Raducanu on multiple occasions, creating a sense of constant threat. These approaches, occurring when she was alone, amplified her feelings of vulnerability. The knowledge that someone was persistently seeking her out, disregarding her personal space, created a climate of fear.

During one of her matches, the presence of the individual became overwhelmingly disruptive. Raducanu recounted seeing him in the crowd, and how it effected her play. “I saw him in the first game of the match and I was like, ‘I don’t know how I’m going to finish’. I literally couldn’t see the ball through tears.”² Those words paint a vivid picture of a young athlete, struggling to maintain her focus amidst intense emotional turmoil. The incident reached a point where she had to take a pause in the match, in order to try and regain her composure.

The emotional toll of the experience was significant. “I was obviously very distraught,” Raducanu explained. The psychological impact of being stalked can be profound, leaving lasting effects on an individual’s sense of safety and well-being. The constant awareness of potential danger can create a state of hypervigilance, making it difficult to relax and focus.

Following the incidents, there has been an increase in her security. “Since that incident I have definitely got increased attention and greater security.” This heightened security is a necessary measure to ensure her safety and provide her with a sense of peace. “I’m always now very aware and not necessarily doing things on my own any more. I’m always with someone and always being watched.”³

While the events were deeply troubling, Raducanu has expressed a desire to move forward. She emphasized the importance of learning from the experience and implementing measures to prevent future incidents. “All we can do is look at what happened and react to it in a better way, in a more positive way, rather than looking back and blaming the situation. Now it is being dealt with better, so for me that’s important.”⁴

The incident has also raised questions about the security measures in place at sporting events. The need to balance accessibility for fans with the safety of athletes is a complex issue. There is a desire for event organizers to review and enhance security protocols to ensure the well-being of all participants.

The experience has undoubtedly left a mark on Raducanu. However, her resilience and determination are evident. She has expressed a commitment to continuing her career, focusing on her passion for tennis. The support of her fans, fellow athletes, and the tennis community as a whole will be crucial in her journey forward.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by public figures, particularly women, in navigating the complexities of fame. It underscores the importance of addressing stalking and harassment, and ensuring that individuals feel safe and protected.