Rafael Nadal ignored pleas to pull out before his brilliant Wimbledon comeback

Rafael Nadal celebrates his remarkable victory over Taylor Fritz (Adam Davy/PA)

Rafael Nadal defied his family’s wishes by battling through injury to record a remarkable five-set victory over Taylor Fritz – but gave no guarantees he will take to Centre Court for his semi-final against Nick Kyrgios.

Nadal came into the match with an abdominal problem and looked set to retire at a couple of moments but somehow recovered to claim a 3-6 7-5 3-6 7-5 7-6 (4) victory after four hours and 20 minutes.