Former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini defeated French rising star Arthur Fils in four sets on Centre Court. The score was 6-4, 7-5, 3-6, 6-3.
Berrettini, eight years older than his opponent, controlled the first two sets with his serve and a strategic backhand slice.
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Fils struggled with the bounce on grass, committing unforced errors during key break points in the opening set.
The 22-year-old Fils made his Centre Court debut after spending much of the past year recovering from a back stress fracture.
The eight-month hiatus interrupted his rise in the rankings.
Fils arrived at Wimbledon without playing any grass-court matches this season due to injury precautions.
He managed to break Berrettini's serve midway through the third set to get back into the match.
During the match, Fils showed frustration toward his coach, Goran Ivanisevic, about positioning against Berrettini's serve.
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He also questioned the umpire over the time allowed for Berrettini between the third and fourth sets.
"Why did you already allow him a minute?" Fils said.
"It's going to be eight minutes before we play again!"
Despite saving match points and displaying a strong forehand, Fils could not overcome the experienced Italian.
Berrettini recently withdrew from the French Open quarterfinals but showed strong form on grass.
The defeat shortens the chances for a French man to win a Grand Slam, a milestone not achieved in 43 years.
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Arthur Rinderknech remains the last French contender, set to face Novak Djokovic in the third round.
