Fabio Fognini launched a ball at Carlos Alcaraz after being left frustrated during their first-round clash at Wimbledon. The pair were embroiled in a titanic battle on Centre Court with Alcaraz struggling to find his best level. The defending champion would have been hoping for a routine victory but was taken the distance by Fognini, who was in no mood to roll over for the Spaniard.

In the opening game of the fifth set, Alcaraz won a point against his opponent’s serve when his return clipped the net on the way over. Fognini sprinted forward and managed to get his racket on the ball, but the Italian accidentally touched the net despite making the shot. Alcaraz, therefore, was awarded the point and Fognini was left frustrated at his own misfortune.

He initially reacted by laughing before pulling a ball from his pocket and jokingly hitting it towards his rival. It prompted a cheer from the Centre Court crowd, while Alcaraz flashed a smile back at Fognini before returning to his position on the baseline.

Andrew Cotter, who was commentating on the match on BBC One, said: “Fognini couldn’t halt his progress, touching the net. Well, even amidst the pressure, there is time for a smile.

“All his effort to run, couldn’t halt his momentum. More than a touch, folding over the net. They’re laughing but there are tense moments.”

Naomi Broady, on BBC Radio 5 Live, noted: “That is the light-hearted moment that Alcaraz needed. In the previous game, the microphones were picking up on him venting his frustrations towards his box. A big smile from him, he can just relax off a little bit.”

A few minutes later, the match was paused due to a medical emergency in the crowd. A stricken spectator needed treatment and umpire James Keothavong did not hesitate to bring proceedings to a halt so that medical staff could get to work.

Addressing the crowd, he announced: “Ladies and gentlemen, unfortunately there has been an incident with a spectator. Health and safety is our priority. We will be pausing the match.”

Alcaraz went into his bag to grab a bottle of water and gave it to the person involved. He hovered around the court during the delay, while Fognini chatted with Keothavong in the shade next to the umpire’s chair.

The match was stopped for just over 15 minutes before play was allowed to resume with Alcaraz leading Fognini by three games in the decisive fifth set.

MORE TO FOLLOW

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures, and video on this breaking news story.

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @DExpress_Sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real-time.

We’re also on Facebook @DailyExpressSport – offering your must-see news, features, videos, and pictures throughout the day to like, comment, and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express, and Express.co.uk.