Security Tightened for Swiatek Following Miami Open Incident

Iga Swiatek received extra security at the Miami Open after a spectator verbally abused her. The incident follows previous online harassment from the same individual. Swiatek's team reported the incident, prompting enhanced safety measures by tournament organizers and the WTA to ensure player security.

Polish tennis star Iga Swiatek, currently ranked world number two, has been granted increased security during the ongoing Miami Open. This decision comes after a male spectator verbally abused the five-time major champion during a practice session last weekend, according to a BBC report.

The individual had previously sent abusive messages to Swiatek through social media, escalating the aggression from online to in-person harassment, as per Swiatek's representatives. "He was aggressive and taunting," they stated, highlighting the threat these incidents pose.

The WTA and tournament organizers have since intensified security measures to safeguard Swiatek, who is set to compete against Philippine wildcard Alexandra Eala in the quarter-finals. Emphasizing the importance of player safety, the WTA maintains stringent security protocols to address and prevent such occurrences.

(With inputs from agencies.)