British tennis star Emma Raducanu has spoken out about an unsettling incident involving a television cameraman during a French Open warm-up match, revealing the moment she first noticed what she described as “wildly inappropriate” behavior.
The revelation came shortly after an on-court outburst by one of Raducanu’s opponents, believed to be directed at similar media behavior during the same session. While the rival player’s name has not been officially disclosed, the outburst reportedly brought attention to the conduct of certain media personnel covering the match.
Raducanu, 22, addressed the issue in a post-match interview, stating she initially tried to ignore the cameraman’s actions, assuming it was part of the standard broadcast process. However, she said the cameraman’s focus lingered unusually long and seemed “oddly fixated” at moments that had little to do with her gameplay.
“It was only after I heard the reaction from my opponent that I realized I wasn’t imagining things,” Raducanu said. “The camera was being pointed in a way that didn’t make sense from a sporting perspective. It made me feel really uncomfortable.”
The incident has sparked broader discussions about athlete privacy and the need for stricter protocols around media conduct, particularly in women’s sports. The tournament organizers have not yet released an official statement but are reportedly reviewing footage and investigating the matter.
Raducanu emphasized that while she appreciates media attention as part of her professional life, boundaries must be respected. “We’re here to compete. This kind of behavior, especially in a setting meant to prepare for a Grand Slam, is completely unacceptable.”
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) is also expected to weigh in, with sources suggesting the issue will be addressed at the next players’ meeting. Meanwhile, players and fans alike have taken to social media in support of Raducanu and called for better safeguards against inappropriate conduct in professional tennis.
The French Open begins next week at Roland Garros, where Raducanu is expected to compete.
