The incident occurred in the first set's ninth game. After securing a point, Alcaraz approached for a towel. Umpire Marija Cicak then issued a time violation, citing that Alcaraz had exceeded the 25-second limit between serves. The 22-year-old expressed clear dissatisfaction, immediately confronting Cicak.

A heated exchange followed. "I stopped the clock," Cicak stated. Alcaraz countered, "No, you didn't." The umpire clarified her decision: "I did. I stopped the countdown clock at the 25th second from the start. Then you took the towel. Then I restarted the clock when you actually touched the towel."

Alcaraz, frustrated, questioned, "Okay. So I'm not allowed to get a towel?" Cicak responded, "I stopped until you got to that area and asked the ball kid for the towel. I cannot cancel that error." The argument concluded with Alcaraz repeating, "I'm not allowed to get a towel. I'm not allowed." Cicak concluded, "I understand. But there's nothing I can do."

Alcaraz celebrates a winning point in his match against Khachanov in the Qatar Open quarterfinals, at Center Court in Doha, Qatar on 19/2. *Photo: Reuters*

During the dispute, Khachanov approached the umpire, reportedly suggesting the penalty be waived. Despite the disruption, Alcaraz won the crucial point to hold his serve. The Spanish player continued to voice his displeasure to the umpire during the subsequent changeover.

The first set went to a tie-break after a 6-6 deadlock, with Khachanov winning 7-3. However, Alcaraz rebounded, securing the next two sets 6-4, 6-3 to advance to the semifinals. He is set to face defending champion Andrey Rublev in the next round.

Building on his Australian Open victory, Alcaraz's run to the Doha semifinals marks his first appearance at this stage of the tournament. His season record now stands at 10 wins and 0 losses. The 22-year-old has maintained a 12-match winning streak in ATP Tour quarterfinals since his defeat to Jiri Lehecka in Doha last year.

By Vy Anh