The alarming accusations came during Yulia Putintseva’s first-round match against Amanda Anisimova
Yulia Putintseva raised serious concerns about a spectator she described as “dangerous” and “crazy” during her first-round match at Wimbledon on Monday, which ended in a heavy 6-0, 6-0 defeat to Amanda Anisimova.
The 30-year-old Kazakh, ranked No. 33 in the world, became visibly distressed early in the contest on Court 15, halting play and refusing to continue until the fan—whom she feared might be armed—was removed.
“Can you take him out? I am not going to continue playing until he leaves. These people are dangerous, they are crazy,” Putintseva was heard telling the umpire during a change of ends while trailing 3-0 in the first set, according to the BBC.
She reportedly pointed to a man wearing green and added: “Take him out, because maybe he has a knife.”
Security staff were called to the court and spoke with the umpire, while the All England Club later confirmed the issue had been resolved.
“Following a complaint about the behaviour of a spectator at the match on Court 15, the chair umpire informed security and the matter was dealt with,” a spokesperson said.
Putintseva was left in tears during the latter stages of the 45-minute match and swiftly left the court after the final point.
Her opponent, world No. 12 Anisimova, acknowledged the disruption. “I believe the spectator was saying something when [Putintseva] was about to serve,” she said.
“But I am sure that we were protected.”
Wimbledon have not disclosed whether any further action was taken against the individual.
The tournament organisers said before the tournament that security will be a “top priority” at this year’s tournament, after Emma Raducanu’s stalker ordeal and Katie Boulter receiving death threats.
All England Club chief executive Sally Bolton said last week: “The recent incidents coming to light, we certainly recognise the concern generated by that.
“But we have in place – and have had for many years – processes for ensuring the safety of our players.
“That is in liaison with law enforcement agencies, specialist security teams and we liaise with both tours.”