Police on alert for Wimbledon stars’ stalkers

TENNIS stars at this year’s Wimbledon Championships are being targeted by suspected stalkers, according to new intelligence received by officers in charge of the police operation, it was revealed yesterday.

The disclosure came as spectators thronged through the gates to face the prospect of random body searches for the first time in the tournament’s history.

Asked about what changes had been made to improve players’ safety following the threat last year to World No 1 Serena Williams, Chief Superintendent Des Stout, who is in charge of policing the event, said they were prepared for any breach. “We were aware of the stalker last year,” he said. “He was identified early on during the tournament and we took action to make sure it didn’t become a further threat, and the same arrangements will be in place this year.