Marcus Willis, the British underdog whose unforgettable 2016 Wimbledon run included a Centre Court clash with Roger Federer, is enjoying a new chapter in his tennis career at the US Open.
Now 34, Willis has reached the third round of the men’s doubles alongside Polish partner Karol Drzewiecki, nearly a decade after his breakthrough moment captivated fans worldwide.
Their progress included saving three match points in a dramatic tie-break victory over John Peers and Jackson Withrow, further enhancing Willis’s reputation as a player who thrives on the big stage.
His path back to professional tennis has been unconventional.
After retiring in 2020 and coaching children at his local club, a friend’s sponsorship allowed him to return to the doubles circuit in 2022.
Known for his flamboyant personality and struggles with fitness—at one point weighing over 18 stone—Willis has worked hard to improve his conditioning, shedding nearly four stone to compete at the highest level again.
Despite never being ranked inside the world’s top 300 in singles, his charisma and resilience have made him a fan favourite.
Willis admitted that life has moved quickly since Wimbledon, with marriage, four children, and retirement before his surprising comeback.
Now, his goal is to make his Australian Open debut in January, righting a wrong from his youth when he was sent home for indiscipline as a junior.
His story continues to inspire tennis fans who embrace underdog tales, proving that with determination and a bit of luck, comebacks are always possible in sport.
Now 34, Willis has reached the third round of the men’s doubles alongside Polish partner Karol Drzewiecki, nearly a decade after his breakthrough moment captivated fans worldwide.
Their progress included saving three match points in a dramatic tie-break victory over John Peers and Jackson Withrow, further enhancing Willis’s reputation as a player who thrives on the big stage.
His path back to professional tennis has been unconventional.
After retiring in 2020 and coaching children at his local club, a friend’s sponsorship allowed him to return to the doubles circuit in 2022.
Known for his flamboyant personality and struggles with fitness—at one point weighing over 18 stone—Willis has worked hard to improve his conditioning, shedding nearly four stone to compete at the highest level again.
Despite never being ranked inside the world’s top 300 in singles, his charisma and resilience have made him a fan favourite.
Willis admitted that life has moved quickly since Wimbledon, with marriage, four children, and retirement before his surprising comeback.
Now, his goal is to make his Australian Open debut in January, righting a wrong from his youth when he was sent home for indiscipline as a junior.
His story continues to inspire tennis fans who embrace underdog tales, proving that with determination and a bit of luck, comebacks are always possible in sport.
