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Willis Vows To Keep Improving After Exit

Willis Vows To Keep Improving After Exit

Marcus Willis has said he has been inspired to fulfil his potential following his heroic Wimbledon defeat to Roger Federer.

Willis - the world No 772 - lost 6-0 6-3 6-4 in his second-round match with Swiss star Federer, but he left the tournament with a renewed belief that he can hold his own among the elite.

The Briton, who coaches children and senior citizens at the Warwick Boat Club in the Midlands, had considered ending his tennis career a few months ago as it appeared to be going nowhere.

But his new girlfriend persuaded him to keep playing, and he fought his way to the main draw at Wimbledon via six qualifying matches before beating world No 54 Ricardas Berankis in the first round.

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The 25-year-old had earned just £149 on the men's tour this year - but his bank balance has now been boosted by £46,837.

"I'm not here for money. It's an added bonus, it's great. I can clear my debts. But I love competing, playing tennis," he said. "I will keep training as I have been. That's not going to change. I have time to hit my peak in a few years.

"In my junior days I had a blip. It happens. Do I have regrets? Maybe, but I'm getting on with it, not thinking about negativity. I have a lot to work on, a lot to improve. So that's exciting for me if I'm playing like this."

His ranking is expected to rise towards 400 and he is likely to be offered a handful of wildcards into tournaments due to his new-found celebrity status.

But he must first decide whether he wants to take part in the far less glamorous Coventry District League, with matches scheduled in the next few days.

"I might play if I'm feeling okay, but I haven't thought about that just now. I'm very tired," he said. "I think my life will change a little bit, but I still want to keep my head down and keep carrying on to enjoy it."