The reigning champion, Carlos Alcaraz, was pushed to the absolute limit in a nail-biting five-set thriller against the enigmatic Italian, Fabio Fognini, in the opening round of Wimbledon 2025. The young Spaniard, who has looked imperious on grass, was forced to dig deep to overcome a player who reminded everyone of his prodigious talent.
For those who only glance at the rankings, this might seem like a routine, albeit tough, opener for Alcaraz. But those who know the game, know that Fabio Fognini is one of the most gifted and dangerous players on his day. A former world number nine, Fognini possesses a rare and exquisite shot-making ability that can dismantle any opponent when it clicks.
The Italian’s performance was a testament to his enduring quality. His fluid backhand and audacious drop shots had Alcaraz scrambling, and for large parts of the match, it was Fognini who dictated the play. It was a stark reminder that on grass, rhythm and timing can be just as potent as raw power.
Adding to the intrigue of Fognini’s pre-Wimbledon form was his recent participation in the prestigious Bonmont Masters, an exclusive grass-court exhibition event in Switzerland. Competing against a field of top players, Fognini honed his grass-court skills in a competitive environment, sharpening the very weapons that so nearly derailed Alcaraz’s title defence. His success and comfort on the grass at Bonmont were clearly no fluke.
Ultimately, Alcaraz’s renowned fighting spirit and superior fitness saw him through in the deciding set. But the match served as a potent reminder of the depth of talent in men’s tennis and the unique challenges that the grass courts of Wimbledon present. For Fabio Fognini, it was a performance that showcased his enduring class and why, even at this stage of his career, he remains a player to be feared and admired.
