Poland’s World No. 2 Iga Swiatek was given additional security after Miami Open audiences verbally abused five major champions during practice sessions last weekend, the BBC reported Wednesday.
The man screamed personal insults about Swiatek’s family and had previously sent abusive online messages to her through social media.
“The Miami incident appears to be a direct transition from verbal aggression online to real-world harassment,” said a representative for Swiatek. “He was offensive and provocative.”
The BBC said Swiatek team reported the incident and that tournament organizers and the WTA have put in place additional security measures around players scheduled to face the Philippines’ wildcard Alexandra Eerra in Wednesday’s quarterfinals.
“Security is a top priority. We monitor our network and catch these types of issues,” a Swiatek spokesperson said.
“Constructive criticism is one thing, threats, hate speech, even interference during training is another. This is unacceptable.”
The WTA did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comment on the issue.
The incident took place just over a month after spectators were removed from the Dubai Championship and caused the pain of 2021 US Open champion Emma Radukanu and then banned after displaying “fixed behavior” on British athletes.
This report uses information from Reuters.