Jack Draper has unfortunately had to withdraw from the US Open due to an arm injury, just before his anticipated second-round match against Zizou Bergs. This decision comes after a challenging period for Draper, the world No. 5, who arrived in New York after not playing a competitive match for over seven weeks. This lengthy absence from the game results from a diagnosis of bone bruising in his left humerus, which has hindered his performance and ability to compete at his usual level.
In the first round, Draper had managed to secure a hard-fought four-set victory over Federico Agustin Gomez, but he had openly expressed concerns about his physical condition. Draper, only 23 years old, has been pushing the limits of his recovery, which was initially projected to take around eight weeks. As a precaution, he has altered his usual serving strategy significantly, with his service speeds noticeably lower than last year’s competition, where he reached the semi-finals impressively.
Taking to social media, Draper communicated with his fans, stating, “Hi guys, I’m sorry to say I’ll be withdrawing from the US Open. I tried my very best to be here and give myself every chance to play but the discomfort in my arm has become too much and I have to do what is right and look after myself. Thank you for all the support.” This heartfelt message highlights Draper’s commitment to his health and well-being, even in the face of disappointment and the high stakes of professional tennis.
In last year’s U.S. Open, Draper showcased his remarkable talent, advancing to the semi-finals before losing to the eventual champion Jannik Sinner. His journey has been inspirational, and while this withdrawal is a setback, it also underscores the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of recovery.
As the tournament progresses, Belgian player Zizou Bergs, who was set to play against Draper, will now prepare to face either Gabriel Diallo or Jaume Munar in the third round. Meanwhile, Jacob Fearnley, another promising talent and former junior rival of Draper, continues to compete after a tough match against the experienced Spanish player Roberto Bautista Agut, in which he notably served 18 double faults but still managed to advance in the tournament. The unfolding dynamics of the US Open reflect the challenges and triumphs that athletes face on their journey.
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