Evans hopes to rebuild his rankings, dropping to 199th place a few years ago from the world’s 21-career high.
Given the Queen’s wildcard entry, the 35-year-old has a tough start against Tiafoe, who made the quarterfinals of the French Open this year.
But Tiafoe often struggles on the grass, and Evans makes the most of his best tennis ball in years for an impressive straight-forward victory.
Last year, Evans ranked over 110 when he chose to focus on pairing in the doubles at the Paris Olympics, so this impressive show is on the newly named field, which is easy.
The two made it to the quarterfinals of Roland Garros, the final of Murray’s long and outstanding career.
Asked later how much Murray inspired his career, Evans said: “It’s not just mine, but the whole of British tennis.
“He always has time for everyone and he has an arena to follow him.
“The Olympics are one of the best things I have done. It’s something to stick to me forever and I’m very proud to play with him [Murray]. ”
Evans played strongly against Tiafoe, maintaining the breakout point before securing his breakthrough with a 3-3 score.
Tiafoe immediately bursts when Evans’ skilled forehand and motivation seem to wield the American way in a 10-minute spell, his opponent barely answers to him.
But Evans, encouraged by the vocal home crowd, digged in from 5-4 to secure a second break and then ended the game – a tough 37-shot rally on the way, helped him.
Now, Evans and five-game winning streak have given him a 2-0 lead at the start of the second set.
Evans’ luck rose 3-1 when Evans’s forehand cuts the mesh rope and leaves it off and ensures a double rest.
Since then, he closed the game and then got applause from the crowd.
“Like today, everything that happened today is the reason why I keep going – come here and put my game on the court and enjoy it.”
“I’m happy with the win. It’s probably one of the best performances I’ve ever played. I don’t have to think too much about it, it’s a problem.”
