A former British tennis player was targeted and harassed by a stalker who first pursued her sister in a terrifying ordeal.
BBC tennis pundit and former player Naomi Broady, 35, who is the sister of current player Liam Broady, was subjected to a endless barrage of Facebook messages from a stalker who targeted her for almost a year after pursuing her sister.
The messages, which played just a one part of the harassment, regularly came in between January and December 2023, in what has been described by prosecutors as a deeply disturbing campaign.
Prior to his harassment of Naomi, David Richardson, 39, admitted that he had also stalked Naomi's sister, Emma for three years, claiming that he was trying to strike up a relationship with the 37-year-old before asking her out.
Advert
Court documents revealed that Richardson sent 'multiple unwanted images and messages' via Facebook, as well as gifts, cards, and paintings.
His lengthy campaign is said to have caused Naomi 'serious harm and distress,' leading to her taking legal action against the Stockport man.
As well as pleading guilty to the offences in court, Richardson admitted to them when confronted at his home by The Mirror.
Advert
Speaking about Emma, who he went to school with, he said: "I wanted to try to win her over. I wanted to ask her out... I was a bit out of practice with the girls... I've not been in a relationship".
He then confessed that he had bought her a Selfridges voucher and some flowers for her birthday, Valentines Day and Christmas Day.
Ahead of his official sentencing in Manchester Crown Court on August 18, Richardson has now been banned from contacting either woman or approaching their homes ahead of sentencing at Manchester Crown Court on August 18.
Speaking to The Daily Mail, a source close to both Broady sisters said: "It was terrifying. They were pleased the police took it seriously. Action has now been taken".
Advert
Naomi was part of the BBC's broadcast team for Wimbledon last month and also works as a commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live.
During her playing career, she reached a career best ranking of 76th in the world, before retiring in 2021.
Topics: Tennis
Ben McCrum