Ranked No. 2 in the world, Alcaraz came through with a 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 win on Centre Court. It was the first match in the men’s singles draw between two Top 20 players. After losing the first set in a tight tiebreak, the 22-year-old Spaniard found his rhythm and lit up the court with his shot-making. Rublev, ranked No. 14, fought hard and stayed competitive throughout. However, he couldn’t stop Alcaraz from breaking once in each of the final three sets. The match featured several high-quality rallies, including a standout point in the third set where Alcaraz hit a running forehand pass to secure a crucial break. That moment at 3-3, 30/40 in the third set highlighted Alcaraz’s speed and skill. Rublev had played the point nearly perfectly, but Alcaraz chased down a wide backhand and responded with a brilliant winner. It summed up the Spaniard’s ability to turn defense into attack and control the match on his terms. Carlos Alcaraz sets clash with Cameron Norrie World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz entered Wimbledon fresh off a title win at Queen’s Club but struggled to find top form in the early rounds. He needed five sets to defeat Fabio Fognini in the first round and dropped another set against Jan-Lennard Struff in the third. Despite being a five-time Grand Slam winner, he showed signs of vulnerability in his opening matches.