Cam Norrie responds to Wimbledon controversy after John McEnroe called him out for 'weird' comment

During the match, Norrie's use of the Spanish expression "vamos" to celebrate winning points caught the attention of BBC commentator McEnroe.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion questioned why the British player was using the Spanish phrase.

Norrie's enthusiastic celebrations, featuring fist pumps accompanied by shouts of "vamos", became a talking point during the broadcast.

The term, which means "let's go" or "come on" in Spanish, raised eyebrows given that Norrie was facing a Spanish opponent.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, Norrie dismissed any suggestion he was attempting to provoke his Spanish opponent.

He explained: "No, my coach [Facundo Lugones] is Argentinian. I was saying kind of 'vamos' the whole tournament."

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The 28-year-old clarified that his use of the expression was purely motivational: "Just trying to bring myself energy. I had to hold out a lot of tough serves, that's why I was doing that."

Norrie's explanation highlighted how his coaching team influences his on-court behaviour.

The British No 2 has worked with Lugones, who hails from Argentina, and naturally adopted some Spanish phrases as part of his match routine.

McEnroe's commentary during the match expressed bewilderment at Norrie's choice of language.

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He said: "Was that Norrie saying 'vamos'? It's weird for a guy that was born in South Africa, grew up in New Zealand and is a Brit, that he's saying 'vamos'."

The former world No 1's comments came as Norrie struggled against Alcaraz, who dominated proceedings to secure his semi-final place at the All England Club.

When asked about being overlooked in the build-up to Wimbledon, particularly after British number one Jack Draper's second-round exit, Norrie remained philosophical.

"Honestly, I don't care about that," he stated.

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He acknowledged Draper's early departure whilst maintaining his focus remained on his own performance.

"It would have been nice to see Jack go deeper. I think he would have liked that too. He's one of the best players in the world at the moment," Norrie said.

"For me, no, I was just concentrated on myself. I had a really tough draw.

"I'm just happy to be enjoying my tennis more than anything."

Alcaraz remains on course to win Wimbledon for the third year on the trot following his emphatic victory over Norrie.

The Spaniard has beaten Novak Djokovic in the last two finals at the All England Club, while he also has five majors to his name in total following two French Open triumphs and one US Open win.