SA's Lloyd Harris launches epic fightback to get Wimbledon off to a winning start

South African tennis ace Lloyd Harris is into the second round at Wimbledon.

Harris, who had to qualify for the event, won in five sets against American Alex Michelsen, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7/5), 6-2 and 7-6 (11/9) in a match that lasted a draining 3 hours and 31 minutes. 

After losing the first two sets, Harris launched a spectacular comeback by taking the third and fourth sets. The match was decided by a close tie-breaker in the fifth set in which Harris held his nerve to secure victory. 

He now faces either American 14th seed Ben Shelton or Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci in the second round.

Lloyd Harris d. Alex Michelsen 3-6 4-6 7-6 (5) 6-2 7-6 (9)…This match point ?? pic.twitter.com/jvqKTleepn

Last week, Harris came through the Wimbledon qualifiers, defeating Hugo Grenier of France in four sets, 6-4, 6-2, 3-6 and 7-6 (7/5).

Harris, who has been on the comeback trail of late after struggling with injury, is currently ranked 104th in the live ATP rankings.

Harris will pocket £93 000 (R2.1 million) by reaching the second round at the prestigious tournament. He already earned £40 000 (R935 000) by making it through the qualifying rounds.

THIS. POINT. #ThisIsTennis | @Wimbledon | #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/2pZjARJP8x