While it wasn't the result Kiwi-raised Brit Cameron Norrie was hoping for, his astonishing run to Wimbledon's centre stage has put the spotlight on an important issue - how New Zealand can keep its rising tennis stars.
Norrie switched allegiance to Britain in 2013 after not getting the full support from Tennis NZ, and a top-level coach is warning things still haven't changed.
As Norrie walked through the hallowed halls of Wimbledon for his first Grand Slam semi-final, it could have been a journey carrying the New Zealand flag.
"I think Cameron is an example of what we can do from New Zealand," coach Clint Packer told Newshub. "But [it's] also an example of what we're doing wrong."
The 26-year-old played in New Zealand as a junior until Britain came calling in 2013.
With both of Norrie's parents hailing from the UK, and having received little support from Tennis NZ at the time, he made the switch.
"I've been saying for a long time, until we get a comprehensive transitional programme, we are going to struggle keeping players if they have affiliations to other countries," Packer continued.
For Norrie it was a move that paid off after a groundbreaking fortnight at Wimbledon.
"[It was] a great experience," Norrie said. "I can take a lot of confidence from it.
"To reach semis and reach Friday of a second week is pretty sick. But for me, I want to go one further and win a slam."
That achievement that would be bittersweet for Kiwis.
"The transition programme that wasn't there for him still remains today," said Packer. "We need to correct it. It's overdue, we need to use Cam as an incentive to change."
Tennis New Zealand has also agreed. A structured programme to help players turn professional is missing, a task made more difficult with many teens opting to attend college in the US - like Norrie did after becoming a Brit.
"I think this is the first time in this country, and at Wimbledon, people have gotten to know me a bit more, and the way I play and the way I operate," said Norrie.
And for those back home, using him as motivation.
"They're inspired by these guys that can do it from New Zealand," said Packer.
But let's hope Norrie is the last player who got away.
