Five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek has been provided with increased security measures after a disturbing incident at the Miami Open, where a fan verbally abused her during a practice session.
The 23-year-old Polish player was targeted by the man on Saturday, who allegedly shouted personal insults about her family.
Swiatek’s representatives revealed that the individual had previously sent abusive online messages to her through social media.
Swiatek’s team condemned the incident, stating, “The Miami incident appears to be a direct transition from verbal aggression online to harassment in the real world.” They added that the fan’s behavior was “aggressive and taunting.”
The incident has sparked concerns about the safety and well-being of female athletes. Swiatek’s experience comes just a month after Britain’s Emma Raducanu was targeted by a stalker at the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Despite the incident, Swiatek has continued to compete at the Miami Open, reaching the quarter-finals, where she will face Filipino teenager Alexandra Eala on Wednesday.
Tournament organizers and the WTA have taken swift action, implementing extra security measures to protect Swiatek.
Miami Open organizers emphasized that the safety and security of everyone at the tournament is treated “extremely seriously.”
The incident highlights the alarming reality of the dangers faced by female athletes. Stephanie Hilborne, CEO of the Women in Sport charity, noted that “every single woman has a level of fear” when it comes to their safety and security.
The WTA and Miami Police have been contacted for further comment on the incident.
