Willis is the lowest-ranked man to qualify and reach the second round of a Grand Slam since 1988, when Jared Palmer, No. 923 in the world, advanced at the U.S. Open.

Palmer’s win was especially remarkable in that he came from two sets down to Jeff Tarango. Palmer retired when trailing in his second round match. He went on to a decent career, making the fourth round of the U.S. Open in 1995

and winning two Grand Slam titles in doubles.