Carlos Alcaraz's clash with Fabio Fognini was suspended midway through the fifth set due to a medical emergency in the crowd. The defending champion sprinted to grab a bottle of water to assist the spectator as medical personal attended the scene.

Umpire James Keothavong 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."

Players returned to their courtside seats as play was paused for over 15 minutes while the spectator was treated and helped out of Centre Court.

Earlier today, Sally Bolton, All England Club CEO, spoke to advise spectator to take extra caution in the gruelling heat, with temperatures reaching 34C.

"For the guests that will be joining us, we're offering the same advice, as lots of the medical professionals, you know, come prepared, bring a hat, where sunscreen, wear light clothing, if you can, take breaks out of the sun," she said.

"We've got over 100 water points around the ground, so definitely stay hydrated, and keep an eye on your your friends and others around you, people look like they're suffering a little bit from heat stress.

"We've got a really significantly sized medical team here, so we've got people here to help, if that's needed. So we're not used to these sort of temperatures, but we are we're absolutely ready for it. and actually delighted that it's sunny and not wet like it was last year."

Alcaraz found himself in a spot of bother as he was taken the distance by Fognini, who hasn't won a tour-level match since October 2.

The Spaniard led 7-5 6-7(5) 7-5 2-6 3-0 when the first-round tie was suspended.

Once it continued he looked to make up for lost time, breaking immediately to lead 5-0. He wrapped up the win with a 6-1 scoreline in the fifth set.

Alcaraz takes on British star Oliver Tarvet in round two.

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