Arthur Bouquier reveals the Thionville Challenger organizers reacted swiftly after a bettor threatened him as the French tennis player is now being followed by a bodyguard everywhere.
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Hours before his opening match in Thionville, the world No. 225 shared a message he received in French in Instagram.
The person who wrote the message said that they had 2000 euros posted on Bouquier to beat Florian Broska in two sets - that they would be in the stands - and that they would "hunt down" the French player if he failed to get the job done in two sets and secure a winning bet.
After alerting everyone about the message he received, the 24-year-old went to the court and beat Broska 6-3 6-4.
Most importantly, the match went without any incidents.
But the tournament also made sure there would not be any.
Bouquier: It's my first time having a bodyguard... I feel safer
I have a bodyguard who follows me everywhere. I swear!" the world No. 225 told L'Equipe.
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"Mr. Boutter (Thionville Challenger tournament director) decided that. He told me: Thats what we also do at the Moselle Open.
"For me, its a first. I feel safer, but its weird. He follows me everywhere! Well, Im in the car now, I dont think hes following me (smiles). I dont know actually.
"Earlier he told me: Now Im going to leave or not. But know in any case that youre going to be able to sleep soundly. Maybe one of his colleagues will take over Its crazy!
Today, Bouquier is set to return to action and play his Thionville round-of-16 match against Titouan Droguet.
Just last month, the 24-year-old won his maiden Challenger title after winning it all in front of his home fans in Lille.
It remains to be seen if he can now also land his second title on the same level at another French event.
