Alcaraz Survives Scare on Hottest Wimbledon Opener

Carlos Alcaraz survived a five-set scare against 38-year-old Fabio Fognini on the hottest opening day in Wimbledon history, winning 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 after over four and a half hours. Alcaraz, the two-time defending champion with an 18-match winning streak, struggled with nerves and committed 62 unforced errors, facing 21 break points. Fognini, who is expected to retire this year and has never advanced beyond the third round, impressed both the crowd and Alcaraz with his performance. The match was briefly halted when a spectator collapsed from the heat, with Alcaraz providing water until medics arrived. Afterward, Alcaraz credited the pressure of Wimbledon and respected Fognini’s play. He will next face British qualifier Oliver Tarvet as he continues his quest to become only the fifth man in the Open Era to win three straight Wimbledon titles.