CARLOS ALCARAZ mimicked Jude Bellingham's celebration after fighting back against Frances Tiafoe in a five-set epic.
The defending champion was in real danger of exiting at the third round as he trailed the American - and his good pal - 2-1.
In front of a Centre Court crowd that included Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Oscar-winning actor Dustin Hoffman and under a closed retractable roof that amplified the thuds of rackets-on-balls, grunts and cheers third-seeded Alcaraz was outplayed for stretches by No. 29 Tiafoe.
But in a game sprinkled with some salivating shots and powerful serves, it was the Spaniard who got the edge in a five-set thriller.
Then he brought out the arms outstretched celebration in honour of Real Madrid and England ace Bellingham.
And Alvarez, who delayed his media duties last night to watch Spain's dramatic extra-time winner against Germany in the Euros said: "I have huge respect for him.
"We're in London. He is England. So that's why. I told him that the big win deserves a big celebration."
Alcaraz will face either 16th seed Ugo Humbert or Brandon Nakashima in the fourth round, as that match was delayed yesterday due to rain, and admits he will have to step up.
This story is from the July 06, 2024 edition of Daily Record.
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This story is from the July 06, 2024 edition of Daily Record.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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