Champion admits to nerves before seeing off Fognini

Carlos Alcaraz said he was proud to have squeezed into the second round after struggling with his nerves and the heat on Centre Court during his dramatic win over Fabio Fognini.

- Tumaini Carayol

In searing temperatures, Alcaraz started his pursuit of a third consecutive Wimbledon title by outlasting the veteran Italian after four hours, 37 minutes on-court.

"I'm getting mature and I know how to deal with some situations," the Spaniard said. "I always say that the champions always find a way. I really want to see myself in that list of champions. I really want to put myself like a champion that always find a way to win. I've been playing really, really tough matches the last year, the last year in this tournament. Just really proud that I always find a way. Today I did it, even though Fabio was playing great tennis. Just really proud to overcome the problem, to overcome the tough moments."

Grand slam titles cannot be won on the first day of competition, but they can always be lost. So far in his career, Alcaraz has been brilliant at ensuring that he at least gives himself a chance in every tournament. With this victory, Alcaraz maintains his perfect record of 18 wins and no defeats in the first round of grand slams. He also has 14 wins and only one loss in five-set matches.