In April 1993, Monica Celes and Steffi Graf dominated women’s tennis, with Graf winning eight of nine Grand Slam tournaments from 1988 to early 1990 and Celes claiming eight of the next 12. Their rivalry escalated until a tragic event in Hamburg, where a fan attacked Celes, stabbing her and sidelining her from competitive play for over two years. The incident significantly impacted the tennis world, leading to increased awareness of player safety.
The article highlights how issues of stalking and harassment persist in women’s tennis, with players like Emma Raducanu and Iga Swiatek facing recent threats. Experts believe the sport’s visibility and the personal connection fans feel with players contribute to this problem. Measures taken for player safety have evolved, yet challenges remain, particularly at smaller events.
Despite heightened awareness and security protocols, stalking incidents continue to affect athletes like Madison Keys and Carlos Alcaraz. The WTA has appointed a dedicated security director and implemented tools to monitor player safety. However, the dynamic nature of live events complicates security. Celes reflects on the lasting impact of her experience, hoping for a future free from such threats.
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