Jack Pinnington Jones revelled in playing out a childhood dream at Wimbledon Qualifying despite losing in the first round in Roehampton.

The 21-year-old lost 6-0 6-3 to former world No.10 Lucas Pouille but is riding the crest of a wave, after knocking out fellow Brit Cameron Norrie at the LTA’s Rothesay Open Nottingham two weeks ago for the biggest win of his career.

Less than four years ago, Pinnington Jones was playing boys’ singles in SW19 and has become a notable British name this year after opting to play collegiate tennis at Texas Christian University.

The Kingston native said: “It was a tough match, he’s a very experienced player, his level of experience is really good, I didn’t feel I played my best tennis unfortunately.

“It’s all a good learning experience, this is very new to me, I’m thankful that I got the opportunity to play Wimbledon Qualifying, it’s a dream come true.

“I’ve still got doubles so there is a lot to look forward to, everyone hates losing and especially the way I lost, especially with how I started in that first set.

“Nerves is a big factor, I’m playing Wimbledon, it’s a childhood dream, I was nervous out there but I’m not worried.”

Last week, Pinnington-Jones was awarded a Wimbledon doubles wild card alongside fellow Brit Jacob Fearnley who lost to Billy Harris in the first round of the LTA’s Eastbourne International.

He insists he is thriving on the learning experience of the grass-court season and cannot wait to get out there in the first round of doubles.

He said: “I was excited going into it and the opportunity to play, I felt confident that if I’d played how I did there, I knew I could maybe make a run.

“It’s a tough draw, it’s not easy but I’d love to be back in singles, and I hopefully will be back next year.

“It’s all positive no matter how I’m feeling in this moment. I’m having the best month of my career, there’s no downside to it, it’s all a positive learning experience for me.”

For the latest action on the British summer grass court season, check out the LTA website