Emma Raducanu says she struggled to breathe after seeing ‘fixated’ man in the crowd

In a candid revelation, British tennis star Emma Raducanu recently shared a disturbing experience from one of her matches, describing how she struggled to breathe after spotting a man in the crowd who seemed “fixated” on her. The 2021 US Open champion, who has often been lauded for her composure on the court, admitted that the unsettling presence of the individual had a significant psychological impact, affecting her ability to focus and perform.

Raducanu, who was playing in a major tournament, described the moment in a post-match interview, saying the situation left her feeling anxious and overwhelmed. “It’s something you can never prepare for,” she said. “You don’t expect someone to be that intensely focused on you. It really took me out of my zone, and I had trouble breathing, which is not ideal in a match.”

The incident occurred when Raducanu noticed a man in the stands who appeared to be staring at her intently, his gaze not wavering. The young tennis player explained that the unusual behavior of the fan, coupled with the uncomfortable feeling of being watched so closely, led to a heightened sense of unease. For a brief period, she struggled to calm herself and regain control of her breath, a crucial aspect of her mental and physical focus on the court.

Though Raducanu did not specify which match this event occurred in, she noted that the experience shed light on the emotional toll that professional athletes sometimes face beyond the physical demands of their sport. “It’s easy for people to forget that we’re human too, and while we try to focus purely on the game, sometimes things outside our control can have an impact,” she explained. “It’s an aspect of the sport that isn’t often talked about.”

Her comments have sparked conversations about the pressures athletes face, not only from competition but also from the public and their interaction with fans. The tennis community has often addressed the fine line between admiration and obsession, with players occasionally dealing with fans who exhibit concerning behavior.

In recent years, the mental health and well-being of athletes have been gaining more attention, especially after high-profile incidents involving figures like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles. Mental health advocates have called for better systems to support athletes in managing external stressors, including fan behavior.

Raducanu’s story has resonated with many, shining a light on how even elite athletes like her are not immune to anxiety and stress related to their surroundings. However, she also emphasized her ability to overcome the discomfort, saying she has learned to compartmentalize her thoughts and redirect her focus.

“I try to always remind myself why I’m here and why I play the sport,” she said. “The tennis court is my place to perform, and I have to find ways to block out distractions. I’ve learned from these experiences, and it makes me stronger.”

This incident is a stark reminder of the unique challenges professional athletes face, and it reinforces the importance of creating a safe, supportive environment where both their mental and physical health are prioritized.