Marcus Willis: How the tennis player who lobbied Federer made it to the US Open after 9 years.

The Story of Marcus Willis

According to The Sun: Remember this name – Marcus Willis.

If you followed Wimbledon nine years ago, especially if you are a fan of Roger Federer, you probably remember his incredible journey.

Phil Shephard-Lewis - The Times

Willis, who was disparagingly called 'Tabster', ranked 775th in the world and competed at Wimbledon in 2016 while working as a coach at Warwick Boat Club.

He not only passed three qualifying rounds, defeating young players Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev, but he also successfully navigated the preliminary qualifying for British tennis players.

In his open match at SW19, he secured a victory over Lithuanian Ricardas Berankis, and then faced the great Roger Federer in the second round.

Despite losing 6-0, 6-3, 6-4, Willis was remembered for the moment he LOBBED the greatest grass player of all time with one of the tournament’s standout shots.

New Achievements

Nearly ten years after those events, Willis got married and became a father of four, two of whom are his biological children. Their ages range from 6 to 13 years. During the lockdown, he worked as a bricklayer and came out of self-imposed retirement.

Now he is in New York and has gone through three match points, reaching the second round of the men's doubles at the US Open alongside Polish player Karol Dżawiński, although he made it into the tournament at the last minute as a substitute.

Willis commented:

“I found out on Thursday evening that we were in the tournament. It was quite nice. We were in place to register.”

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Willis also added:

“I was unsure if I would make it, but it’s crazy to play at the US Open.”

Reminiscences about Wimbledon and Future Plans

“I remember what it was like at Wimbledon as if it happened yesterday, although it was actually nine years ago.”

“I participated in the preliminary qualifying only because one player couldn’t return from Turkey due to a flight delay. I didn’t play on grass because of the rain.”

Willis, whose wife supports him wholeheartedly, came to Flushing Meadows, but will soon return home due to work. He returned to competitive tennis in July 2022 after two years of retirement.

Willis earned the unkind nickname 'Tabster' at the start of his careerGetty Images - Getty

In his understanding, weight has always been an issue, and he admitted to having difficulties controlling his diet.

Willis has repeatedly faced unkind comments when he was called 'Cartman' due to his weight during competitions.

Today, at age 34, Willis says:

“I still have to lose a few pounds. It’s hard. Food at home – I’m perfect at that.”

His goal is to compete at the 2026 Australian Open, which he planned to attend last January but couldn’t due to Cameron Norrie withdrawing from participation.

Willis also mentioned:

“This week in New York is a metaphor for me not to give up. I’m enjoying this game.”

Alamy The story of Marcus Willis is not only a tale of talent and effort but also a demonstration that even after tough times, one can find a way back to sporting victories. His achievements at the US Open testify to the strength of spirit and the desire not to give up despite all hardships. Willis continues to inspire others by his example, demonstrating that it is important not just to win, but to enjoy the game itself.