If you thought tennis was boring, Carlos Alcaraz just proved you wrong! After more than four and a half hours of hellish battle and five sets, the two-time Wimbledon champion endured and defeated Fabio Fognini 7-5, 6-7, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1. Yes, you read that right — nearly four and a half hours of nonstop drama on the court! The Spaniard avoided a sensational upset and extended his impressive streak of 19 consecutive wins at Grand Slam tournaments — a true tennis machine. But it wasn’t easy. Fognini was a fierce opponent with aggressive play and even managed to level the match at two sets all. The fourth set was a complete turnaround in favor of the Italian, who led 5-2, but Alcaraz didn’t give up. In the deciding fifth set, the Spaniard showed why he’s one of the best in the world, winning it convincingly 6-1. The match was even briefly interrupted because someone in the crowd fainted — drama at every turn! Now, in the second round, he faces British tennis player Oliver Tarvet, who himself caused a sensation at Wimbledon. Tarvet, a student from San Diego, knocked out Swiss player Leandro Riedi 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, but due to NCAA rules, he won’t be able to keep almost any of the €115,000 prize money! Yes, you heard that right — he earned a fortune but must return most of it to remain an amateur and continue playing for his university team. Tennis is full of absurdities, and this situation only fuels the debate about NCAA rules and their purpose. Tarvet said he’s not here for the money but for the experience and the crowd, but who wouldn’t want to keep at least some of that huge sum? All in all, Wimbledon this year brings not only top-notch tennis but stories that will be talked about for a long time. If you think tennis is just a game, think again! What do you think about these NCAA rules? Is it fair that talented student-athletes have to turn down millions? Drop a comment and let the people’s voice be heard!
