Carlos Alcaraz rushes to help as Wimbledon spectator falls ill in sweltering heat

Carlos Alcaraz's clash with Fabio Fognini was temporarily paused after a spectator on Centre Court fell ill with the Wimbledon champion coming to the rescue with water.

The Spaniard's clash went the distance and lasted over four hours and, just after he'd gone 3-0 ahead in the fifth set, the game came to a halt as a spectator fell ill. It was likely down to the searing heat with those in attendance subjected to 30 degree plus temperatures.

Alcaraz was quick on the scene, taking over a water bottle as those around looked to attend to the individual. The first round contest was stopped for well over ten minutes with the umpire later getting out of his chair to get more information.

As the wait went on the Spaniard was doing sprints and practicing his shots whilst Fognini, who has surpassed all expectations by taking the match to a fifth set, took on some gels to ensure he was primed. Alcaraz eventually secured a 7-5, 6-7, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 success.

Players, ground staff and spectators all had to contend with sweltering conditions as Wimbledon recorded its hottest opening day in its history.

READ MORE: British qualifier 'eyeing £70k of expenses' to keep Wimbledon money due to college rules

READ MORE: Brit ranked 461 in the world produces stunning Wimbledon upset to down 20th seed

Air temperature on the grounds had reached 32.3 degrees by 4pm on Monday, surpassing the previous record at the start of a Championships - which was set back in 2001. Players were given ice packs, cold towels and plenty of water to help regulate their temperature during changeovers.

The ball boys and girls were also given cooling scarves. Spectators meanwhile attempted to shade themselves with hats, umbrellas. Whilst hand-held fans were the flavour of the day. Temperatures are again forecast to be in the mid-30s on Tuesday.

Despite the heat the tournament's extreme heat rule, which allows players a 10-minute break, has not yet been enforced because Wimbledon measures additional factors to determine heat stress.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued an amber heat-health alert until Tuesday after Monday's temperatures across much of the country went above 30 degrees.

Speaking before the start of Monday's play, chief executive of the All England Lawn Tennis Club Sally Bolton said Wimbledon was "ready for this hot weather".

There will be more to follow on this breaking news storyand Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible. Pleasecheck back regularly for updates on this developing story. Follow us onGoogle News,Flipboard,Apple News,Twitter,Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.