Wimbledon match halted as BBC commentator witnesses distressing incident
There was concern on Centre Court on Friday afternoon as the action was brought to a halt
The match was halted in the second set
(Image: BBC )
There were concerning scenes at Wimbledon on Friday afternoon as the third round clash between Taylor Fritz and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina was halted due to a fan "in distress".
With Fritz leading by two games to one in the second set having won the first 6-4, the game had gone to deuce when the umpire signalled to stop play. BBC commentator John McEnroe confirmed that the break in action was due to an incident in the crowd, with a fan near the commentary box requiring attention.
"Someone right near us has seemingly come under some distress," said McEnroe. "So, they've stopped the match".
Lead commentator Simon Reed added: "They are getting the umbrella out, it is obviously heat-related."
Fritz then crossed the court to bring a bottle of water over to where the stricken fan was sat, with the crowd on Centre Court breaking into applause.
"Fritz is bringing some water, recognising what is needed," Reed added.
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The BBC cameras then panned across to the crowd, with the fan seen protected by a purple and green umbrella as fellow spectators passed the bottle of water in their direction.
Umpire Damian Dumusois was then seen holding a phone to his ear as he gathered more information about the fan's condition.
"[Dumusois] is on the walkie-talkie, just making sure there is enough help," said Reed.
McEnroe then added: "She's conscious.
"For the elderly, they should have... shade only... at a certain point. I don't know if she was planning on being here for the entire day.
"It ain't gonna happen now."
Play was halted for nearly five minutes as the fan received treatment, with both players taking a break under umbrellas.
Temperatures reached around 28C at Wimbledon on Friday, with fans warned to take appropriate measures to protect themselves in the warm weather.
A statement from Wimbledon ahead of the tournament read: 'Adverse weather is a key consideration in our planning for The Championships.
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"We are prepared for the predicted hot weather, with comprehensive plans in place for guests, players, staff and the BBGs (ball boys and girls).'
The fan was soon helped out of Centre Court, with the crowd applauding the efforts of those who had helped them.
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