Earlier, 2024 Eastbourne semi-finalist Billy Harris got his campaign this year off to a strong start with a shock win over fellow British player Cameron Norrie.
Harris, who only qualified for this year’s competition as a lucky loser, beat former Wimbledon semi-finalist Norrie 6-4 6-4 in Tuesday’s third match on centre court.
For world number 142 Harris, it was only his second win over a player in the top 100 as he impressively saw off 61st-ranked Norrie.
“I knew it would be a tough match today,” Englishman Harris said. “I had to play a good match, and managed to stay solid in the wind.
“I had some great memories from last year here, hopefully I can turn this into a good week.”
In the first competitive singles match between the compatriots, Harris raced into a 4-1 lead with a double break, taking both break points on offer in set one.
A grinding opener with only five winners in total was in part decided by 13 unforced errors from Norrie, who received a wildcard for Eastbourne but was below par here, despite managing to beak Harris’ serve in the eighth game. He also failed to hit an ace in the one hour and 24 minute encounter.
Harris then broke in seventh game of the second set, and saw off four Norrie break points in the final game as he served for the match.
Harris will play Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci in the second round.
