Marcus Willis Returns to Wimbledon 10 Years After Federer

Marcus Willis once earned just £220 in a year playing tennis, considered quitting, and worked as a bricklayer during the pandemic. Now he's ranked 64th in the world and competing at Wimbledon again.

Ten years ago, Willis became a national sensation when he went from qualifying rounds to playing tennis legend Roger Federer on Centre Court. The world number 772 lost the match but won hearts with a perfectly executed lob shot that became the BBC's Shot of the Tournament.

The overnight fame brought television appearances and constant interview requests, but Willis says it faded quickly. By 2018, he'd quit tennis entirely due to injuries taking a toll on his mental health.

During the 2020 pandemic, Willis worked for his cousin's bricklaying business to support his family. He jokes that you wouldn't want him building your house, but the experience gave him perspective and freedom from the pressure of professional sports.

A family friend's offer to finance a comeback got Willis thinking about tennis again. His wife Jenny encouraged him to take the chance, reminding him that opportunities like this don't come twice.

This time around, Willis reinvented himself as a doubles player. He takes his profession more seriously than ever before while maintaining balance with family life.

Sunny's Take

The father of four now spends his time shuttling kids to taekwondo, swimming, and drumming lessons between training sessions. He even started a podcast called "What You Talking About Willis?" in homage to his favorite 1980s sitcom.

On Wednesday, Willis begins his Wimbledon doubles campaign alongside partner David Stevenson. They'll face British former world number one Joe Salisbury in the first round.

Willis says his life is less dramatic now than during his singles days, and that's exactly how he likes it. He focuses on being the best tennis player, husband, and father he can be.

Looking back at that famous Federer match, Willis admits it will follow him forever. But he's made peace with that because the experience helped shape who he is today.

The lob heard round the world may have made him famous, but his comeback story shows something even better: it's never too late to chase your dreams again, especially with the right support system cheering you on.