Two-time defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz overcame a challenging first-round match against Fabio Fognini. The match extended to five sets, with Alcaraz ultimately securing the win 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1.
A Grueling Match on Centre Court
The match, lasting four hours and 37 minutes, was played in intense heat. Alcaraz acknowledged the difficulty of the match, especially given it was the first one on Centre Court. He admitted to feeling nervous at the start, despite his recent successes on grass.
Fognini’s Strong Performance
Alcaraz praised Fognini’s performance, stating he didn’t understand why it would be his last Wimbledon. He noted that Fognini still possessed the level to play for another three or four years. Alcaraz gave Fognini credit for a great match, recognizing his talent and level of play throughout his career.
Key Moments and Turning Points
Despite Alcaraz’s eventual victory, Fognini proved to be a formidable opponent. Former champion Pat Cash, commentating for the BBC, suggested that Fognini leveling the match could have led to “the biggest upset in Wimbledon history”. Alcaraz himself acknowledged that he “was struggling a little bit” during the match. Former British world number one Tim Henman criticized Alcaraz’s performance, noting a surprising number of unforced errors. Alcaraz uncharacteristically hit more unforced errors than winners, a rarity for him. In total, Alcaraz made 62 unforced errors. However, Alcaraz managed to regain composure in the fifth set, finding his serve and securing a 5-0 lead.
Alcaraz’s Respect and Admiration for Fognini
Alcaraz expressed sadness that this was likely Fognini’s last Wimbledon. He was happy to have shared the court with him. Following the match, Fognini requested a shirt from Alcaraz for his son, who is a big fan. Fognini had even jokingly told his son to “look at him badly” during the match, but his stance softened afterward.
Fognini Contemplates His Future
Fognini, who is planning to retire at the end of the season, admitted to crying in the locker room after the match. He said he didn’t expect to play five sets and was emotional about the possibility of it being his last appearance. Fognini even considered making the Alcaraz match his last, feeling it was a good way to say goodbye to Wimbledon and possibly to tennis itself.
Looking Ahead
Alcaraz will face British qualifier Oliver Tarvet in the second round. Alcaraz stated that he respects every opponent and needs to play his best to win. Despite Tarvet’s lower ranking, Alcaraz is not taking him lightly.
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