LONDON — British tennis sensation Jack Draper delivered a commanding performance at the Cinch Championships at Queen's Club, demolishing American Jenson Brooksby in straight sets (6-3, 6-2) after a lengthy medical delay disrupted the match. The victory marks Draper’s continued rise as one of the sport’s most promising young talents.
A Dominant Display Despite the Delay
The match, initially delayed due to Brooksby requiring medical attention for an undisclosed issue, saw Draper maintain his composure and focus. Once play resumed, the 22-year-old left-hander showcased his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play, leaving Brooksby struggling to keep up. "I just tried to stay calm and stick to my game plan," Draper said in his post-match interview.
Key highlights of Draper’s performance included:
- Winning 85% of his first-serve points
- Breaking Brooksby’s serve three times
- Dictating rallies with his forehand, which produced 12 winners
Brooksby’s Struggles and the Medical Break
Brooksby, known for his tenacity and counterpunching style, appeared visibly uncomfortable early in the match. After dropping the first set, he called for a medical timeout, leading to a 10-minute delay. Though he returned to the court, the American never found his rhythm, committing 22 unforced errors compared to Draper’s 12. "It’s tough when you’re not feeling your best, but credit to Jack—he played really well," Brooksby admitted afterward.
Draper’s Momentum on Grass
This victory further solidifies Draper’s reputation as a rising force on grass courts. Last year, he reached the semifinals at Eastbourne and pushed Novak Djokovic to four sets at Wimbledon. His game—featuring a big serve, heavy groundstrokes, and improved movement—is particularly well-suited to the surface. "I love playing on grass. It suits my game, and I feel confident here," Draper remarked.
Looking Ahead
With this win, Draper advances to the next round at Queen’s, where he will face another tough opponent. A deep run here could significantly boost his ranking ahead of Wimbledon. Currently ranked No. 31 in the world, Draper has his sights set on breaking into the top 20. "I’m just taking it one match at a time, but my goal is to keep improving and compete with the best," he said.
Brooksby’s Road to Recovery
For Brooksby, the loss is another setback in what has been a challenging season. The 23-year-old, once ranked inside the top 50, has struggled with injuries and form in 2024. "I need to regroup and focus on getting healthy," he said post-match. His next tournament appearance remains uncertain.
Conclusion: A Statement Win for Draper
Draper’s emphatic victory sends a strong message to the rest of the field. His blend of power, precision, and mental toughness makes him a dangerous opponent on grass. As the British No. 1, he carries the hopes of a nation eager for a homegrown champion. "I’m just enjoying the process and working hard every day to get better," Draper concluded.
With Wimbledon just weeks away, all eyes will be on Draper to see if he can translate his Queen’s form into a deep Grand Slam run. For now, fans and analysts alike are taking notice—Jack Draper is a name to watch.