Carlos Alcaraz’s first-round match against Fabio Fognini at Wimbledon 2025 on June 30 was briefly suspended due to a medical emergency in the Centre Court crowd, as announced by umpire James Keothavong. According to *The Athletic*, the incident occurred during the third set of a thrilling five-set battle, with temperatures soaring to 32°C. Alcaraz, the two-time defending champion, noticed a spectator in distress and promptly delivered a water bottle, earning applause from the crowd, per *BBC Sport*. Keothavong announced, “The match will be paused while the fan receives treatment,” prioritizing safety as medical staff attended to the spectator, who was sheltered with umbrellas and fanned, per *The Guardian*.
The pause, lasting several minutes, came at a critical juncture, with Alcaraz and Fognini locked at one set apiece and 3-3 in the third. Fognini, playing in his final Wimbledon, was pushing Alcaraz with scintillating backhands and deft volleys, per *The Athletic*. The match resumed with Alcaraz holding serve after a 135 mph ace, eventually winning 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-5, 2-6, 6-3 in three hours and 35 minutes. Alcaraz’s sportsmanship during the delay, coupled with his resilience, was highlighted on X by @BBCSport, who noted his “concern and quick action” for the fan. The incident underscored the day’s extreme heat, with players using ice towels, per *The Guardian*. Alcaraz now faces qualifier Oliver Tarvet in the second round, per *Sporting News*.[]
