Willis did not see a game point until the 22nd minute, snatching at a forehand, and when Federer racked up a seventh straight game it looked as though winning a single game might be beyond the Englishman.
It was to Willis' credit that he grabbed a foothold in the match, spreading his arms in relief and drawing a standing ovation after finally getting on the board with a forehand winner in the 30th minute.
From then on he would at least keep Federer honest, with the Swiss taking the second set with a solitary break for 4-2 and having to wait until 4-4 to make the breakthrough in the third.
"Shoes off, if you love Willis!" came the now familiar chant from his supporters as Willis made a match of it, all the while giving as much back to those supporting him.
His incredible run finally came to an end after one hour and 24 minutes, with Federer leaving the Centre Court stage to Willis, who soaked it in before heading back to reality and his next appointment - a club match in Coventry.
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