Carlos Alcaraz demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship during his four-set victory over Ben Shelton at the French Open.
The 22-year-old Spaniard, the reigning champion at Roland Garros, faced a challenging fourth-round encounter against the powerful American server.
Alcaraz saved three set points in the opening set to win it 7-6, clinching a tough tiebreak 10-8.
In the second set, at 30-30 in the first game, the two-time Wimbledon champion advanced towards the net after hitting an approach shot to Shelton`s backhand.
The 13th seed responded with a two-handed shot towards Alcaraz, who then hit a soft forehand volley to the other side of the court.
After moving quickly across the back of the court, Shelton hit a stunning lefty passing shot.
At first, it looked like Alcaraz had somehow reached the ball with his racquet and hit a winner over the net.
Shelton, also 22, stood with his hands on his hips, clearly surprised that Alcaraz had managed to return the shot for a winner.
However, the situation wasn`t as it first appeared. The world No. 2 immediately gave the point to his opponent.
Initially, it seemed Alcaraz had hit a volley before dropping his racquet. But it became clear he had actually thrown his racquet towards the ball *before* making contact.
Since throwing the racquet is not a legal way to hit the ball, Alcaraz quickly admitted his action and conceded the point to Shelton, which resulted in a break opportunity for Shelton.
When the umpire announced what had occurred, the crowd on Philippe Chatrier court applauded Alcaraz for his honesty.
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Despite facing the break point (and eventually saving a total of SIX in that game), the crowd favourite managed to hold his serve.
Alcaraz ultimately won the match with a score of 7-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.
After the three-hour and 22-minute battle, the two players shared a friendly embrace at the net, both smiling after the entertaining match.
In his post-match comments, Alcaraz spoke highly of his opponent.
The Spaniard from Murcia stated: "We have great respect for each other. Every time we play against each other, we perform at a high level and play good tennis. He`s a very powerful player capable of hitting any shot… he`s an amazing player.
“We played complete tennis, with powerful shots, approaching the net, big forehands… We fought throughout the entire match. It`s great having him around, he brings great energy."
Alcaraz is set to play again on Tuesday in the quarter-finals against Tommy Paul.
