Former professional tennis player Rika Hiraki has been arrested in Japan on suspicion of involvement in a romance scam, according to local reporting. The case has drawn attention because Hiraki is known for winning the mixed doubles title at the 1997 French Open.
The arrest was reported from Kagoshima, and Hiraki, 54, is said to be under investigation over her alleged role in the scam. Based on the available information, authorities have not publicly outlined the full details of the accusations in the trimmed report.
Hiraki was a recognizable name in Japanese tennis after her Grand Slam success, making the allegations especially notable in the sports world. The news marks a sharp turn from a career once associated with one of tennis's biggest stages.
As the investigation moves forward, the focus is likely to remain on what role prosecutors believe Hiraki played and what evidence supports the arrest. For now, the case centers on suspicion of involvement, with further details expected as Japanese authorities continue their inquiry.
