sport news British wildcard Ryan Peniston wants more after Grand Slam singles debut win trends now
All of a sudden, every step on this remarkable ride means rather more. For Ryan Peniston, for his future housemate and for all those being swept along.
To think this 26-year-old from Essex had toiled for so long without anyone taking much notice.
Now, after his fantastic run on the grass continued with a 6-4 6-3 6-2 win over Henri Laaksonen, this wildcard stands tall: a Wimbledon matchwinner, an inspirational cancer survivor, a lesson in perseverance. Almost a new homeowner.
His prize? A place in the Wimbledon second round. But the British No 6 wants more. More wins, possibly a bigger house. Peniston is looking to buy somewhere with fellow Brit Alastair Gray.
Ryan Peniston defeated Henry Laaksonen in straight sets in the first round at Wimbledon
The 26-year-old was playing in his first ever five set match but prevailed with ease
'We're great friends. If we could find a place around this area to stay, it would be awesome,' Peniston said.
Every win helps – this alone adds £28,000 to their budget. Alas, given prices round here, Peniston might need to win the whole thing. 'Especially in these times,' the world No 135 joked.
What special days they are, though, for a player who battled a rare cancer as an infant.
'It's really hard to explain how it feels. It's been such a journey,' he said. 'Thinking about the past times and where I've been able to get to now.'
Scars remain, of course. 'It's such a terrible thing to go through, especially for my family, my close friends,' Peniston said. 'It gives me so much strength.' And not just him.
'I've had some really nice messages from some foundations and people as well - families that have gone through similar stuff. It's really special to receive those.'
