The two-time defending champ eventually asserts himself in the last set to pick up a 7-5, 6-7 (5), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 victory amid record-breaking Day 1 heat at the oldest Grand Slam tournament.

Carlos Alcaraz has needed to go through five sets against Fabio Fognini at Wimbledon before winning their first-round match to start his bid for a third consecutive title at the All England Club.

Carlos Alcaraz and Fabio Fognini produced a thrilling clash in the Wimbledon first round on Centre Court. The defending champion ousted the veteran 7-5, 6-7, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 in four hours and 37 minutes, avoiding a stunner.