The 45-year-old, a triple singles Grand Slam champion, came through against Dutchman Maikel Scheffers 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 as the eight man tournament begun.

He will now play another comeback victor in the last four after Sweden's Stefan Olsson defeated Gustavo Fernandez of Argentina 5-7, 6-2, 6-2.

Also through is Britain's Australian Open champion Gordon Reid, who beat France's Nicolas Peifer, 6-3, 6-4.

“I’m really pleased to get the win today, Nico is a really tough opponent and on grass he is really quick,” said Reid. 

“I got off to a good start and my serve was working well. 

"It’s brilliant to be back playing at Wimbledon, especially singles for the first time. 

"I had fantastic support from the crowd and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”

Reid will play Belgium's second seed Joachim Gerard, who ended the hopes of Britain's Alfie Hewett, 6-0, 6-4.

In the women's competition, Dutch top seed Jiske Griffioen made the last four with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Germany's Sabine Ellerbrock.

She will play her compatriot Marjolein Buis who defeated Louise Hunt of Britain 6-0, 6-2.

Japan's second seed Yu Kamiji was knocked out, losing in three sets to Aniek van Koot of The Netherlands, 2-6, 7-5, 6-4.

Her last four opponent will be Britain's number one Jordanne Whiley, who saw off her country's number two Lucy Shuker 6-1, 6-1.