Alcaraz survives Fognini scare to begin Wimbledon defence with win

LONDON - Holder Carlos Alcaraz blew hot and cold on a blazing June 30 at Wimbledon but the Spaniard survived a massive scare to beat dangerous Italian Fabio Fognini 7-5 6-7(5) 7-5 2-6 6-1 and reach the second round.

Alcaraz, bidding to become only the fifth man since tennis turned professional in 1968 to win three consecutive Wimbledon titles, arrived at the All England Club on an 18-match winning streak but the second seed looked out of sorts at times.

He recovered his level when it mattered most and prevailed to avoid becoming only the third defending champion to lose in the Wimbledon opening round after Manuel Santana in 1967 and Lleyton Hewitt in 2003.

A gracious Alcaraz led the tributes to Fognini in what was the 38-year-olds final Wimbledon appearance.

First of all, I dont know why its his last Wimbledon because the level he has shown, you know, he can still play three or four more years. Its unbelievable, Alcaraz said.

Hes a great player. Im just a little bit sad ... but just happy to have lived and shared the court many times with him and in the locker room.

Alcaraz had to save a couple of break points at 2-1 down in the opening set and three more in his next service game before breaking for a 6-5 lead with a sublime drop shot followed by a lob as fans on Centre Court expected normal service to resume.

Fognini conceded the opening set but clawed his way back after surrendering his serve to force a tiebreak in the next and the veteran drew level at one set apiece when Alcaraz missed a simple passing shot at the net.

Iced towels

Alcaraz, who frequently reached for iced towels during the changeovers, regained his grip on the match