Britain’s Andy Murray urges world No772 to relish Centre Court showdown with Roger Federer
Former Wimbledon champion Andy Murray has urged British wildcard and world No772 Marcus Willis to relish his showdown with seven-time tournament winner Roger Federer on Centre Court on Wednesday.
Willis shot to prominence on the opening day of the championships when he stunned world No54 Ricardas Berankis, beating the Lithuanian in straight sets, having already navigated six rounds of qualifying.
“Who would have thought a few weeks ago he’d be in this position?” said Murray.
“To get the opportunity to play against Roger, who is arguably the best male player of all time currently, on the court where he’s had his most success, it’s just amazing.
“He should just go out there, enjoy it and give everything he’s got. I’m sure he’ll have a great time out there. He’s got a great personality. He’s good fun to watch and listen to. I’m sure it will be entertaining.
“Anyone can beat anyone in the draw. Amazing things do happen in sport sometimes. Obviously Roger’s a massive, massive favourite going into the match.”
World No2 Murray, who was watched by recently re-hired coach Ivan Lendl, began his own Wimbledon campaign with a comfortable straight sets, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4, victory over wildcard and fellow Briton Liam Broady on Tuesday.
Having navigated the first all British meeting at the All England Club since 2001, Murray is now set to face Yen-Hsun Lu of Chinese Taipei in the second round tomorrow.
Defending champion Serena Williams, meanwhile, brushed aside world No148 Amra Sadikovic 6-2, 6-4 to surge into the second round, although the American top seed accumulated five double faults.