JACK DRAPER’s first match on grass this year was halted after a spectator was taken ill at Queen’s Club.
The British No.1 was waiting to receive serve against American Jenson Brooksby in a first-round tie in game four of the second set.
Yet cries of “stop, stop, stop” could be heard from fans as stewards rushed over to the incident in the uncovered stands.
The umpire immediately stopped play and both players sat down under umbrellas during the delay.
Temperatures reached 26 degrees during the clash and supporters were encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and don hats.
SunSport understands that a fan fainted in the crowd and quickly recovered backstage after being taken away by medical staff.
Draper, who is the second seed, was leading 6-3, 3-0 at the time of the delay, before going on to to win 6-1 in the second set.
Play got back underway five minutes later after both players rallied to get back into the groove.
The commentator said: “Let’s hope that spectator is OK.”
The Barons Court Club hosts tennis every June – this is one of the biggest warm-up events before Wimbledon – but there are no roofs or shelters on the temporary stands.
A message from organisers to all media and fans said: “Please take care in the hot sun.
“Hydrate regularly and wear a hat if you have one. If you don’t feel well, let us or a steward know right away.”
Draper wrapped up a 6-3, 6-1 victory with an ace to book his place against Australian Alexei Popyrin in the last-16 on Wednesday.
The Brit wrote: “It’s good to be home” with a Sharpie pen on the camera lens.
French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz takes on Aussie player Adam Walton in the evening session on the Andy Murray Arena court.
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