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 officials deemed his vocal encouragement during a match to be too rowdy, leading to his ejection and a substantial fine.
From Viral Sensation to Security Incident
The fan first captured public attention earlier in the week when Raducanu singled him out following her straight-sets victory over Mananchaya Sawangkaew. Bray, sporting a distinctive 'Australia' tank top, had repeatedly called the player 'Raddo' throughout the match. During her on-court interview, Raducanu gave him a special mention, saying: "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 track down her enthusiastic supporter, cementing Bray's sudden celebrity status within the tournament. However, his fortunes changed dramatically during Friday's action at Rod Laver Arena.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
Whilst supporting Australian player Alex de Minaur against Frances Tiafoe, Bray's vocal encouragement crossed what officials considered acceptable boundaries. Security staff received multiple complaints from other spectators about his disruptive behaviour, leading to his removal from the venue.
The fan documented the incident on his Instagram story, filming police officers handing him a directive to depart for 24 hours alongside a $700 (£354.88) fine. He avoided a lengthier prohibition but was clearly frustrated by the development.
Bray 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 then formally barred him from returning to Melbourne Park for the following 24 hours.
"Kicked out of the Australian Open because I am a fan, thank you very much," he retorted sarcastically. "I appreciate being kicked out of the Australian Open for being an Australian Open fan, being a tennis fan."
Official Statements and Broader Context
A Tennis Australia spokesperson confirmed that Bray received multiple verbal warnings before security escalated the situation. "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 about tournament security, 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."
Fan's Perspective and Final Comments
As he was led away by police officers, Bray continued filming outside the venue. Despite his clear annoyance, he described the experience as 'quite fun' in his social media updates.
"This is hilarious, I've got the police force here taking me out," he added. "I feel like this guy [an Australian Open security guard] doesn't want to do it, and that's fine. The police force is taking me out of the Australian Open. I'm a big fan, no dramas. But the cops are here. It's quite fun, quite fun."
Once escorted off the tournament grounds, Bray reflected on the situation: "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. 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. I wasn't being disrespectful, Tiafoe was playing well, Demon was playing well. Dunno, got kicked out. Security literally f***ing strong-armed me."
The incident highlights the fine line between enthusiastic support and disruptive behaviour at major sporting events, particularly when fans achieve unexpected celebrity status during tournaments.
