LONDON (AFP) – Marcus Willis’s brief flirtation with Wimbledon fame was ended by Roger Federer as Novak Djokovic racked-up an Open era record of 30 successive Grand Slam wins on a day when torrential rain caused more havoc to the schedule.
Willis, the world number 772 who had already played seven matches just to make a dream second round clash on Centre Court, went down 6-0, 6-3, 6-4.
“It sounds funny but I am disappointed to lose,’’ admitted the Englishman.
“It’s daunting. I was playing alright at first, I settled into the match. I was enjoying it. If I was playing well and competing with Roger for a couple of sets I was doing well. I’ve earned myself a beer now.’’
Only Federer and Djokovic managed to complete their second round matches on Wednesday after just 90 minutes of action was possible on the rain-lashed outside courts. Only 18 of the 62 ties scheduled for the day were completed.
Willis, who makes his living coaching children and senior citizens at a rowing club in the English midlands, has provided the feelgood factor of a wet, cold week in south-west London.