World No. 2 Iga Swiatek will be playing under extra layers of security in Miami after she was harassed by a spectator during a practice session over the weekend, the BBC first reported Wednesday.
The five-time major champion from Poland is set to play Philipppine wild card Alexandra Eala in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open on Wednesday.
Swiatek’s team said tournament organizers and the WTA reacted quickly after a man verbally abused Swiatek over the weekend. He lobbed personal insults about Swiatek’s family and had previously sent abusive online messages through social media, per the report.
“He was aggressive and taunting,” Swiatek’s spokesperson told the BCC.
“There are comprehensive security protocols in place to make sure that any incidents are handled promptly and effectively,” the WTA said. “The details of these are not something we discuss publicly, but we are steadfast in our commitment to maintaining a safe environment for players and everyone attending one of our events.”
Last month a spectator was removed from the Dubai Championship and banned after exhibiting “fixated behavior” toward Emma Raducanu.
–Field Level Media
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