While Isner was almost delirious, Mahut, 28 and ranked 148 in the world, looked remarkably fresh, perhaps boosted by the knowledge he had won a match with Britain's Alex Bogdanovic in qualifying 24-22 in the final set.

BBC: Wimbledon 2010: Epic halted at 59-59 in fifth set

Bogdanovic, three years Murray's senior, has had a more troubled time under Britain's Davis Cup umbrella.

BBC: SPORT | Tennis | What now for British tennis?

Annacone, the LTA's head coach of men's tennis, was full of praise for Bogdanovic, who turned professional in 2002 and reached 108th in the world in June 2007, but is mystified by his lack of success.

BBC: Bogdanovic faces wildcard threat