Emma Raducanu Super-Fan Ejected from Australian Open for 'Rowdy' Behaviour
James Bray, the Australian Open supporter who gained internet fame after being christened 'Raddo' by British tennis star Emma Raducanu, was forcibly removed from Melbourne Park on Friday night. Tournament security officials deemed his vocal encouragement during a match to be excessively disruptive, leading to his ejection and a substantial fine.
From Viral Sensation to Security Concern
The fan's journey from anonymous supporter to minor celebrity began earlier in the tournament when Raducanu singled him out following her straight-sets victory over Mananchaya Sawangkaew. Throughout the match, Bray had repeatedly called the British player 'Raddo' while sporting a distinctive Australian-themed tank top.
During her on-court interview, Raducanu gave him special recognition, stating: "Thank you to the support, I think it was incredible on both sides, and a particular shout-out to 'Raddo' apparently is my new nickname. You're invited for every match, just let me know, let my agent know, and you're here."
The tennis star later made a public appeal to locate her enthusiastic supporter, cementing Bray's sudden celebrity status within the tournament grounds.
The Incident That Led to Ejection
Despite his newfound recognition, Bray's tournament experience took a dramatic turn during Friday's evening session at Rod Laver Arena. While supporting Australian player Alex de Minaur against Frances Tiafoe, his vocal encouragement crossed what officials considered acceptable boundaries.
Bray documented the incident on his Instagram story, filming police officers presenting him with a directive to leave the premises for 24 hours alongside a $700 (£354.88) fine. He informed his followers: "So we've got the police here, unfortunately I'm being kicked out of the Australian Open because I've been too rowdy."
An officer formally informed Bray he was barred from returning to Melbourne Park for the following day. "Kicked out of the Australian Open because I am a fan, thank you very much," he responded sarcastically. "I appreciate being kicked out of the Australian Open for being an Australian Open fan, being a tennis fan."
Fan's Perspective and Official Response
As police escorted him from the venue, Bray continued filming and described the experience as 'quite fun' despite his evident frustration. "This is hilarious, I've got the police force here taking me out," he added during his departure.
Once removed from tournament grounds, Bray reflected: "Bit of a weird feeling, paid $700 for a ticket to the 'Demon' [de Minaur]. I feel like everything was going well. I was cheering him, not disrespectful, I wasn't cheering in between double faults or in between serves or nothing like that. I was just cheering on him like I would generally cheer on any Australian on any court."
He claimed security approached him unexpectedly, stating: "For some reason security came up to me and said: 'Sorry mate, you've been warned, you need to leave'. It was a bit of a weird one. I feel like I wasn't doing anything bad. Everyone around me was cheering."
Tournament Authorities Provide Their Account
A Tennis Australia spokesperson confirmed Bray received multiple verbal warnings before his removal. "Security received a number of complaints from fans in Rod Laver Arena last night relating to the disruptive behaviour of an individual in the crowd," they explained. "Despite multiple warnings from staff, he refused to modify his behaviour and continued to disrupt those around him. Police were called to assist security speaking with the patron who disregarded advice to minimise his disruptive behaviour."
Victoria Police provided broader context, with a spokesperson noting: "Overall, 21 people were evicted from the tennis precinct by police for a range of alcohol and or behavioural related incidents. There were no major incidents of note. So far, police have been extremely pleased with the crowd behaviour at this year's Australian Open and look forward to fans and spectators enjoying another exciting week."
The incident highlights the fine line tournament organisers must navigate between encouraging passionate support and maintaining acceptable spectator behaviour standards during major sporting events.
