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Simon made to sweat by sparkling Edmund

Kyle Edmund impressed, even in defeat © PA Photos

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Teenager Kyle Edmund underlined his status as an exciting player to watch for British tennis with a narrow defeat to world No. 17 Gilles Simon on Wednesday.

Edmund, who will be a wildcard entry into Wimbledon next week, forced Frenchman Simon to work hard for his second round victory at the Aegon International in Eastbourne, eventually losing 7-6(5) 7-6(3).

Simon pushed Roger Federer all the way at Roland Garros earlier in the month, but it was he on the end of a tough examination this time around.

Edmund had a set point at 5-4 in the first set, but could not quite convert as Simon went on to clinch the advantage on a tiebreak.

Edmund responded to that disappointment with an immediate break in the second set - perhaps an illuminating insight into his attitude and approach, something that should stand him in good stead as his career progresses.

The two players went toe-to-toe in the second and another tiebreak always looked on the cards - unfortunately for Edmund, it again went against him, as Simon's greater experience perhaps told at crucial junctures.

Nevertheless, it was an encouraging performance for the 18-year-old, as he prepares to make his debut in the seniors at the All England Club.

"I was delighted with my performance," Edmund said. "I played well the other day so I just thought if I put my game on court like I did on Monday that would be the best way of giving myself a chance to win.

"I served well again and he was a completely different player to the guy I played on Monday so it was a different game style

"I put everything out there and even though I lost I was still very well with the way I played."

He added: "It gives you confidence. He is 16th [17th] in the world and I got pretty close so confidence-wise it is massive.

"For me, learning and going up the ranks of tennis it shows where I can play and I have just have got to use this as a positive.

"I remember two years ago hitting with him in Stoke Park and he beat me 6-0 in a set. Two years on I got there and, although I am disappointed I lost, I am still pleased."

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