Carlos Alcaraz describes himself as 'a really lucky guy' following the crowd reception at his first-round Wimbledon match.

World No. 1 Alcaraz defeated Jeremy Chardy 6-0, 6-2, 7-5 on center court today, Tuesday, July 4, moving easily into the second round at Wimbledon 2023. The Spaniard didn't drop a game in the first set, and he followed this up with almost equal dominance in the second. Meanwhile, the 36-year-old Frenchman on the other side of the court celebrated his first game on the board in what was the final match of his professional tennis career.

Although the third set was much closer, Alcaraz maintained his lead and won in straight sets. This is yet another success in an incredibly strong season for the 20-year-old on the ATP Tour.

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Alcaraz in awe at crowd

Speaking after the match, Alcaraz said it was "beautiful to play here." In terms of the physical architecture, he noted that "We've had the roof, it's better for me, for everyone", alluding to the rain that has delayed several matches across other courts over the last two days.

He went on to express his amazement at the levels of support he received from the crowd,

"I have great memories from last year playing in this tournament. I'm really happy to have a lot of people supporting me, not only in Spain but around the world as well. I'm a really lucky guy to live this experience, this love in every country that I go."

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A tough road ahead

Although Alcaraz sailed through his first match at the SW19, it won't be so easy as the tournament continues. Most notably of course, he will most likely have to face four-time defending champion Novak Djokovic if he wants to get his first win at the grasscourt major.

For now though, he will face the victor of the match between Alexandre Muller and Arthur Rinderknech in the second round.

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Racing through to the second round 🏎️ #Wimbledon | @carlosalcaraz

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