"I am a little sad" - Carlos Alcaraz questions Fabio Fognini's retirement decision after surviving Wimbledon scare

Carlos Alcaraz made a dejected admission after narrowly escaping an early upset against Italy's Fabio Fognini in the first round of the 2025 Wimbledon Championships. The defending champion was pushed to the brink but managed to steady himself just in time to turn the match around.

Alcaraz’s Wimbledon campaign got off to a far from ideal start. While many had underestimated Fognini, the Italian turned out to be a real threat when they faced off on Monday, June 30.

The former World No. 1 had to dig deep to overcome a stern challenge from his opponent, battling through five sets to kick off his bid for a third straight title at SW19. After dropping the second and fourth sets, Alcaraz found another gear in the decider, ultimately sealing a hard-fought 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 victory on Centre Court.

Later, Carlos Alcaraz shared his thoughts on Fabio Fognini during his on-court interview. He admitted he couldn’t understand why the 38-year-old plans to retire at the end of the season, saying he clearly still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.

"I don’t know why it’s his last Wimbledon," Alcaraz said. "The level he showed, he can still play for 3 or 4 more years. Unbelievable. I just have to give him the credit for such a great match. Fabio is a great player. He’s shown his level and talent throughout his whole career. Once again, he showed it today."

The Spaniard added:

"I’m a little sad it’s probably his last Wimbledon. Just happy to have lived and shared the court and locker room with him. We are gonna enjoy the last of him."

Fabio Fognini makes adorable request to Carlos Alcaraz after Wimbledon encounter

Fabio Fognini and Carlos Alcaraz pictured at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships | Image Source: Getty

Fabio Fognini may have lost his final Wimbledon match to Carlos Alcaraz, but he left Centre Court with his head held high. Before walking off, he shared a touching moment with the Spaniard, making an adorable request on behalf of his son, Federico.

Fognini asked Alcaraz for his shirt as a gift for Federico, who’s a big fan of the Spaniard. The Italian said:

"Charly. I want your shirt for Federico".

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It’s now time for Alcaraz to shift his focus to the second round, where he’ll face rising British talent Oliver Tarvet as he looks to keep his Wimbledon title defense on track.

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Pritha is one of the driving forces behind Sportskeeda's tennis & baseball coverage, serving as an assistant content manager and editor. What began as a casual escape from her tiring biotechnology degree course in early 2022 has blossomed into a passion she loves, cherishes, and breathes every day.

Pritha’s love for the sport was spawned by her dad who showed her clips of "GOAT" Steffi Graf’s matches. Despite a thwarted dream of playing professionally due to injury, she finds solace in reporting the sport, while also mentoring other writers to ensure every article is error-free and top-notch. She double checks credible sources, such as the tournament/player handles and big tennis media outlets, and gives proper credit where required.

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Edited by Pritha Ghosh