Anderson takes the long route

Kevin Anderson became the first South African man in 97 years to reach the Wimbledon final on Friday after downing John Isner in the second longest Grand Slam singles match ever played. The 32-year-old Anderson triumphed 7-6 (8/6), 6-7 (5/7), 6-7 (9/11), 6-4, 26-24 after six hours and 36 minutes on Centre Court.

Isner previously won the longest ever Grand Slam singles match against Nicolas Mahut, lasting 11 hours and five minutes over three days in the 2010 Wimbledon first round.

The marathon tie meant that the Nadal v Djokovic semi-final was to be played under the roof as the light began to fade just after 8pm.

It was the longest semi-final ever played at Wimbledon, surpassing the four hours 44 minutes it took Djokovic to beat Juan Martin del Potro in 2013.

"I don't really know what to say right now, playing like that in those conditions was really tough for the both of us," said eighth seed Anderson. "It feels like it's a draw but somebody has to win. John's a great guy. I really feel for him."

"I don't know how you can take it playing for so long and coming out the wrong side. I apologise if I'm not more excited right now. At the end you don't even feel that great out there, but at the same time I'm through to the final."

Anderson finished with 49 aces and 118 winners; Isner had 53 aces and 129 winners.