Marion Bartoli Opens Up About Stalker Experience After Emma Raducanu’s Ordeal
Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli has shared her own harrowing experience with a stalker following Emma Raducanu’s recent ordeal at the Dubai Tennis Championships.
Raducanu’s second-round match against Karolina Muchova was temporarily halted after she spotted a man in the stands who had previously approached her earlier in the week. Visibly shaken, the 22-year-old broke down in tears and hid behind the umpire’s chair before the spectator was removed.
The individual was later arrested by Dubai police, and while Raducanu has chosen not to press charges, a restraining order has been put in place for her protection.
Bartoli’s Own Stalker Encounter
Reflecting on Raducanu’s experience, Bartoli revealed that she too was stalked during her career, recalling a frightening encounter throughout the grass-court season in 2007—the same year she reached her first Wimbledon final.
“Someone followed me throughout the entire grass season in 2007,” Bartoli said.
“I played Birmingham and Eastbourne, and that person found a way to enter the grounds by disguising himself as a ball kid and groundsman.”
The 40-year-old Frenchwoman explained that her stalker even went as far as purchasing official tournament uniforms to gain access to her matches.
“He managed to get himself onto my court as a groundsperson. I recognized him from my first-round match against Flavia Pennetta and immediately reported it to the All England Club.”
After she alerted security, tournament organizers identified the individual, banned him from the grounds, and distributed his photo to all entrance points at Wimbledon.
“When you’re in that environment, it can be extremely stressful, especially at a young age. I was 22 years old, just like Emma, and I remember telling my dad, ‘That person shouldn’t be on my court.’”
While Bartoli’s stalker never verbally threatened her, his persistence made her feel deeply uncomfortable.
“He didn’t insult me, but he was relentless in following me. I completely understand what Emma went through, and I was extremely proud of her for continuing to play despite the circumstances.”
Raducanu Returns to Action at Indian Wells
Raducanu is set to make her return at Indian Wells, which begins next week. The tournament has confirmed additional security measures for the world No. 55, who reached the third round of the WTA 1000 event last year.
She will also be joined by interim coach Tom Welsh, following her split from Nick Cavaday earlier this year. Welsh, a former hitting partner of Leylah Fernandez, will support Raducanu on a temporary basis during the tournament.
With increased security and a fresh start, Raducanu is focused on leaving her Dubai ordeal behind as she prepares for one of the biggest tournaments outside the Grand Slams.
