Jack Draper attributes the pressure he placed on himself to compete with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as a factor in the arm injury that hindered his 2025 season.
The British No. 1, Draper, made his return to competition after a five-month hiatus, achieving a 6-2 6-2 victory over Viktor Durasovic, which helped Great Britain secure a Davis Cup win against Norway in Oslo.
Having reached world No. 4 last June, the 24-year-old has watched his peers, Alcaraz and Sinner, continue to dominate the men’s tennis scene while he remained sidelined.
Confident in his return, Draper believes he is a more capable player now and is eager to challenge the Spanish and Italian players at the pinnacle of the sport. “That was my intention, and this pressure may have contributed to my injury,” he reflected, speaking to the Press Association.
Draper acknowledged, “Perhaps my desire to play perfectly and hit the ball harder created stress on my body. I’ve gained valuable insights about myself during this time, both mentally and physically, which have set me on the right path.” He emphasized his determination to reach the level of the current top players: “I’m very motivated to make that leap.”
Following a “complex” bone bruise diagnosis in his left arm after a second-round exit at Wimbledon against Marin Cilic, Draper expressed, “I wouldn’t wish this on any player. Nonetheless, this time away has provided me perspectives that will ultimately enhance my playing experience.” He believes he has developed into a better player since last summer, where he was consistently winning matches.
Draper, unfortunately, had to withdraw from the upcoming Rotterdam Open, which would have marked his first singles tournament since the US Open in September, where he exited in the first round. “While I’m disappointed not to be competing, I’m progressing positively overall,” he remarked. His victory against Durasovic was the only match he played for Great Britain against Norway, as planned by coach Leon Smith, who confirmed that Draper’s participation was limited due to prior arrangements.
The 4-0 triumph for Great Britain has advanced them to the next qualifying round later this year, where they will compete against either Australia or Ecuador for a chance at the finals in November.
