Five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek was given extra security at the Miami Open after a spectator was reported for threatening behavior.
Player safety in tennis is under increased attention after Emma Raducanu was upset when a man was removed from the stands during her match at the Dubai Tennis Championships in February.
The incident involving Swiatek reportedly happened last week.
Miami Open organizers stated that they take player and attendee safety and security very seriously.
They mentioned they are always checking for potential threats and taking appropriate actions. Details of security operations are not shared to maintain their effectiveness.
A representative for Swiatek’s team said that security is a top priority. They monitor online activity to detect such issues. They emphasized the difference between constructive criticism and threats or disruptive behavior, stating threats and hate speech are unacceptable.
They reported the incident to the tournament organizer and the WTA, who responded quickly and added security measures, for which they are thankful.
They stressed that ensuring player safety is essential, as players are central to the event and protecting them is their responsibility.
Swiatek was defeated in the Miami Open quarter-finals by Alexandra Eala of the Philippines with a score of 6-2, 7-5 on Wednesday.
Eala recovered from an early break in the first set to win it 6-2.
Swiatek played better in the second set and led 4-2, but Eala continued to challenge her with varied shots, winning five of the last six games to win the match in 100 minutes.
This means Swiatek has not won a title in 2025, with her last victory being at the French Open last year.
Tim Henman Comments on Spectator Abuse
Tennis commentator Tim Henman noted that such abuse is unacceptable in society and in tennis.
He added that it is positive that tours are aware of this behavior, and that culprits will be removed from tournaments.
Henman expressed his hope that such incidents can be minimized, calling it unpleasant for Swiatek to experience.
He highlighted Swiatek`s position as a top player from Poland, a country without a strong tennis history, making her a significant figure with both strong support and, unfortunately, negative aspects like abuse.
He concluded that dealing with such abuse is difficult for her.
