The former tennis player Álex Corretja, who now enjoys success as a radio and television commentator, has revealed that he was stalked by an obsessive fan during his playing days. This confession came while discussing the disturbing incident involving British tennis player Emma Raducanu, who collapsed on the court after spotting her stalker in the stands during a match in Dubai. Corretja shared his experience on the program ‘The Crossbar’, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the fear that comes with being followed.
As Corretja delved into his past, he recalled having a group of fans known as “the AC gang,” who were generally pleasant but included one individual who stood out for being overly obsessive. This fan, a German man around Corretja’s age, would attend every match and even show up at his hotel, sending cards and photos to sign, and wearing shirts with Corretja’s image printed on them. The situation became increasingly concerning, especially after the infamous attack on Monica Seles in 1993, where a spectator stabbed her in the back during a match.
Corretja’s Encounter with His Stalker
Corretja described his stalker as having “an obsessive face or some serious mental disorder.” The constant presence of this individual began to unnerve Corretja, who felt a sense of vulnerability, particularly when he was alone. He noted that while the tournament venues provided a level of security, hotels and other locations did not, leaving athletes exposed. Corretja’s experience underscores the serious issue of stalking in sports, where the line between fandom and obsession can become dangerously blurred.
The incident involving Monica Seles served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers. Seles was attacked by a spectator who was a fan of Steffi Graf and wanted to prevent Seles from overtaking Graf in the Grand Slams. This incident not only affected Seles’ career but also had a profound impact on her life. Corretja reflected on how this event changed his perception of his own stalker, realizing that the situation could potentially escalate into something more sinister.
In retrospect, Corretja acknowledged that while nothing ultimately happened, the fear and uncertainty he felt were very real. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the risks associated with individual sports, where athletes often find themselves alone and unprotected outside of official tournament settings. Corretja’s story brings to light the need for increased awareness and support for athletes who may be dealing with similar situations, ensuring their safety and well-being both on and off the court.