Qualifier Tarvet impresses but cannot shock Alcaraz

University student Ollie Tarvet was unable to create one of the biggest shocks in Wimbledon history as the Briton's dream run came to an end against two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

The 21-year-old qualifier put up an entertaining fight - showing signs of his vast potential - but ultimately lost 6-1 6-4 6-4 on Centre Court.

Ranked 733rd in the world, Tarvet created 11 break points against the five-time Grand Slam champion.

But the Englishman - who studies in the United States - could only take two of those opportunities and never looked like seriously causing an upset.

"I want to give credit to Oliver – I love his game," said second seed Alcaraz, who secured a 20th match win in a row.

"The level he played in his first match on Centre Court, which I know is difficult, was great.

"I knew I had to be really focused from the beginning. I'm happy with my performance."

Tarvet's run of four victories - three in qualifying and another in the first round proper - means he should be taking home prize money of £99,000.

However, he is only allowed to claim $10,000 (£7,290) in profit every year under American college rules, as well as any expenses incurred during the events.

Despite showing he can test the very best in the professional ranks, Tarvet still plans to return to the University of San Diego next year to conclude his four-year communications and media degree.

Few British tennis fans had even heard of Tarvet this time last week.

But, after coming through qualifying to reach his first Grand Slam main draw, his stock has continued to rise.

A confident victory over Switzerland's Leandro Riedi in the first round set up an eye-catching meeting with Alcaraz, who is looking to become only the fifth player to win three successive men's titles at the All England Club.

But stepping out on to the sport's most iconic court to face a global superstar would be a daunting prospect for many young players.

Tarvet had never played in front of more than several hundred people, but was greeted to a warm ovation from the 15,000 fans – many of who were dreaming of seeing a seismic upset.

With Alcaraz misfiring in the early exchanges, there were gasps of shock as the Briton found himself with three break points in the opening game.

Alcaraz recovered to save each of them, then broke in the next game, and the mood threatened to flatten.

But Tarvet continued to demonstrate energy and expression – like he regularly does on the NCAA circuit – to keep the reins on the Spaniard.

Highlights included coming out on top of a 27-shot rally, showing his speed to put away a trademark Alcaraz drop shot and lasering a passing forehand winner when the favourite came forward.

Tarvet's level increased further in the second set. He went toe-to-toe with his illustrious opponent until losing serve to love with the set delicately poised at 4-4.

Alcaraz served out for a two-set lead and, after threatening to break in a lengthy game to open the third, took his next opportunity for a 3-2 advantage.

Still Tarvet showed he was not prepared to roll over. The home fans were back on their feet as he hit straight back for 3-3, but the energy he exerted to do that meant he dipped in the next game and lost serve again.

After Alcaraz completed victory, he congratulated Tarvet on his performance and appeared to offer advice as they walked off court arm in arm.