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Novak Djokovic's PTPT lauded the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships for how they handled Emma Raducanu's stalker situation and also emphasized that such incidents are still more common in lower-tier events, and that tournaments must do everything possible to safeguard player's safety.
After the British tennis player complained about a man who was in attendance during her Round 2 game at the tournament and became visibly upset, the organizers reacted quickly, and the man was removed from the stadium.
It wasn't long before the WTA replied, prohibiting the stalker from attending any WTA tournaments.
And the Dubai organizers totally supported Raducanu's decision, making themselves available if she needed assistance.
"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 made it known that the safety of players is one of their top priorities and that they are constantly seeking ways to help ensure that.
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