Marcus Willis is a British tennis player from Slough, Great Britain.

MARCUS WILLIS made a name for himself at last year’s Wimbledon when he took seven games off the all-time great Roger Federer. His story was all the more inspiring as he had come close to quitting professional tennis shortly before the competition.

Here Marcus rekindles what it was like to face the world’s greatest on Centre Court and talks about his success in the doubles at this year’s event. 

What has kept you motivated and determined in the sport of tennis from when you began at the age of nine?

I always loved racket sports and would do it in my spare time as a youngster. I am motivated and determined as the life as a top athlete is incredible.

Marcus had a successful year in the Doubles at this year’s Wimbledon. photo Robert Bate

Before last year’s Wimbledon started how much belief did you have that you would go on to make a name for yourself in the tournament?

I always believed I could compete with the top guys but never really had the opportunity. Last year I was playing really well just before Wimbledon but I did not think I would do as well as I did, mainly because I was coaching more and I hadn’t played a competitive match since January. As each win came, I grew more and more confident.

Marcus and his doubles partner Jay Clarke won their second round match at Wimbledon. photo Robert Bate

How did it feel to have your WillBombs fans and create such a buzz for tennis fans around the world?

The fans were amazing, they definitely helped me in my first round match against Berankis. It was very overwhelming having such a fanbase and having such a good story to tell. It’s what you dream of as a youngster.

Marcus serves on Court 3 at Wimbledon. photo Robert Bate

Tell us how it felt to face Roger Federer on Centre Court at Wimbledon?

The Federer match was insane. Partly because of the noise, also because I was playing the greatest of all time on centre court in front of millions. It was tough, he came firing out of the blocks and I had to respond. By the end of the match I had a foot in the door but I had left it a little too late.

Tell us about your experience of this year’s Wimbledon?

This year was fantastic. We came from two sets down in the first round to win in five in front of a packed crowd, and then we managed to defeat the defending champions in a packed court 3 again in five sets, we played the match of our lives and again the atmosphere was electric. Unfortunately we lost in the last 16 to the eventual finalists. Not bad at all!

What words of advice would you give to athletes who are inspired by your determination to never give up?

I will always say: Never Give Up!
No matter how far down you are anything is always possible. I am living proof of that!