Wimbledon 2025: Alcaraz Overcomes Rublev, Norrie Advances, Kartal Falls Short

July 6, 2025 – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London

Day 7 of Wimbledon 2025 delivered a thrilling mix of high-stakes tennis, with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, British hopeful Cameron Norrie, and rising star Sonay Kartal taking center stage. The day was marked by intense battles, a controversial line call, and significant milestones for players vying for quarter-final berths.

Alcaraz Battles Past Rublev in Centre Court Classic

Carlos Alcaraz, the two-time defending champion and world No. 2, faced a stern test against the hard-hitting Andrey Rublev in the round of 16. The Spaniard, chasing a historic three-peat at SW19, dropped the first set in a tight tie-break, 6-7(5), as Rublev’s explosive forehand and baseline aggression kept him on the ropes. Alcaraz admitted to struggling with his return game early on, appearing erratic and not at his fluid best. However, the 22-year-old’s resilience shone through as he roared back, leveling the match by taking the second set 6-3 with sharper shot-making and relentless energy.

The third and fourth sets saw Alcaraz elevate his game, capitalizing on rare lapses from Rublev to secure a 6-4, 6-4 victory. The win marked his 18th consecutive victory at Wimbledon and his 46th of the 2025 season, more than any other male player on tour. “It’s just about belief,” Alcaraz said post-match, reflecting on his comeback. He now advances to his third straight Wimbledon quarter-final, where he will face Cameron Norrie. “Cam is playing great, I know him well. It will be really difficult, but I’m excited,” Alcaraz added.

Norrie Edges Jarry in Five-Set Thriller

British No. 1 Cameron Norrie kept home hopes alive with a gritty 6-3, 7-6, 6-7, 6-7, 6-3 triumph over Chile’s Nicolas Jarry on No. 1 Court. The match was a rollercoaster, with Norrie surging to a two-set lead before Jarry fought back, leveling the score with tie-break wins in the third and fourth sets. Norrie’s composure in the decider proved decisive, as he broke Jarry’s serve to secure a 3-0 lead and held firm to book his place in the quarter-finals.

“It was tough. Credit to Nico, he didn’t let me get comfortable,” Norrie told Annabel Croft after the match. Benefiting from a favorable draw due to early seed exits, Norrie’s performance showcased his tenacity and grass-court prowess. His next challenge is a blockbuster clash against Alcaraz, a matchup he described as “a gift” to play on Centre Court.

Kartal’s Dream Run Ends Against Pavlyuchenkova

Sonay Kartal, the British wildcard who captivated fans with her fearless play, saw her remarkable Wimbledon journey come to an end against Russia’s Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Playing her first-ever match on Centre Court, Kartal battled valiantly but fell 7-6(7-3), 6-4 in straight sets. The match was not without controversy, as a faulty line call at a critical moment in the first set sparked frustration for both players. Pavlyuchenkova, fuming at the technological glitch, regrouped to dominate the tie-break and carried her momentum into the second set.

Kartal’s speed and defensive skills kept her in rallies, but Pavlyuchenkova’s heavy-hitting style produced more winners, ultimately proving too much. Despite the loss, Kartal’s run to the fourth round was a career highlight, earning her widespread praise. “The crowd was incredible,” Kartal said, reflecting on her Centre Court debut. Pavlyuchenkova now advances to face either Linda Noskova or Amanda Anisimova in the quarter-finals.

Other Notable Results

• Aryna Sabalenka continued her quest for a maiden Wimbledon title, defeating Elise Mertens 6-4, 7-6(7-4) to reach the quarter-finals. The world No. 1 showcased her power and precision, navigating a tricky second set to stay on course.
• Taylor Fritz advanced to the quarter-finals when Australia’s Jordan Thompson retired due to injury, setting up a potential semi-final clash with the Alcaraz-Norrie winner.
• Karen Khachanov secured a quarter-final berth with a victory over Poland’s Kamil Majchrzak, adding to the day’s competitive action.

Looking Ahead

Day 7 underscored the intensity of Wimbledon 2025, with Alcaraz and Norrie setting up a must-watch quarter-final. While Kartal’s exit marked the end of Britain’s female singles hopes, Norrie carries the flag forward. The Championships are heating up, with top seeds like Sabalenka and Fritz also advancing, promising more drama in the days to come.

For full scores, updates, and schedules, visit the official Wimbledon website or follow live coverage on BBC Sport.