Alcaraz Survives Lajal Scare in Wimbledon Opener

Carlos Alcaraz, the defending Wimbledon men's singles champion, faced a stern test in his opening match against Estonian qualifier Mark Lajal on Monday. Despite being the heavy favorite, Alcaraz was pushed to the limit by the 6-foot-3 Lajal, who made his Grand Slam main-draw debut.

Lajal, who was born a week after Alcaraz in May 2003, displayed impressive power and precision throughout the match. His booming serve, which reached speeds of over 130 mph, kept Alcaraz on his toes. Lajal's forehand was also a potent weapon, as he repeatedly outmuscled Alcaraz in groundstroke rallies.

Alcaraz, who had played just two matches on grass at Queen's Club before Wimbledon, admitted to feeling nervous before the match. However, he managed to steady himself and eventually overcame Lajal's challenge in three sets, 7-6(3), 7-5, 6-2.

"I practiced 45 minutes on Thursday, and it's the first time that I was nervous on a practice, just because I'm playing here," Alcaraz said after the match. "I'm glad, and I'm privileged, to play here on this court."

Despite the victory, Alcaraz acknowledged Lajal's talent and predicted a bright future for the young Estonian. "He played a really good match," Alcaraz said. "He surprised me a little bit because I didn't see him too much playing, practicing, but I think he has the level to go up a lot."

Alcaraz's win sets up a second-round clash with German qualifier Oscar Otte. Otte, who is ranked 152nd in the world, upset 20th seed John Isner in the first round.

Tags: #Wimbledon, #CarlosAlcaraz, #MarkLajal, #Tennis, #GrandSlam