KYLE Edmund’s dream of reaching the third round at Wimbledon has been dashed by Gael Monfils on Centre Court.
The British number two had hoped to join compatriots Andy Murray, Johanna Konta, Heather Watson and Aljaz Bedene to make it a famous five in the last 32 for the first time in 20 years.
But Edmund, 22, ran into 15th seed Monfils, who used his full range of power and finesse to send the world number 50 packing 7-6 (7/1) 6-4 6-4.
Nevertheless, Edmund relished his first taste of Centre Court as a player, having previously visited the famous arena as a child.
“I just really enjoyed it — it’s one thing saying you’re going to be on Centre or looking at the atmosphere, but actually experiencing it is another thing,” he said.
“I didn’t enjoy the loss, but I enjoyed the experience — I’m sure a lot of players would say it’s the biggest court in the world.
“When I was eight or nine I did a tour around Wimbledon, around Centre Court.
“And I was saying to my mum this morning, ‘now I’m actually going to play there’.”
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