NEW YORK — A year after his stunning run to the semi-finals, British tennis sensation Jack Draper is back at Flushing Meadows, but this time his campaign is underscored by a familiar narrative of battling through physical adversity.
The 22-year-old left-hander, now the British No. 1, arrives at the final Grand Slam of the year carrying the weight of a nation's expectations and the nagging pain of a shoulder injury that has hampered his preparation.
Despite the discomfort, Draper's resolve remains unshaken, driven by a burning desire to prove that his breakthrough performance in 2023 was no fluke and that he belongs among the elite of the men's game.
A Semifinal Run Forged in Pain
Twelve months ago, Draper captivated the tennis world with a breathtaking display of power and finesse, storming into the last four as an unseeded underdog. His journey was a testament to his raw talent, but it was also marred by physical struggles.
Throughout the tournament, he was managing a recurring shoulder issue that required extensive treatment and pain management. In a press conference following his semifinal loss, he was candid about the challenge, stating, "It's been tough. Every match I've had to dig deep, not just mentally but physically. The team has been incredible just keeping me out there."
That run, which included victories over two top-20 players, announced Draper as a future star. However, the physical toll was significant, contributing to a stop-start 2024 season that has seen him grapple with consistency.
The Rocky Road to the 2024 Open
The past year has been a classic case of two steps forward, one step back for Draper. His ascent up the rankings was confirmed when he captured his first ATP title on grass in Stuttgart, a victory that propelled him into the world's top 30 for the first time.
Yet, the shoulder problem has been a persistent shadow. It flared up again during the North American hardcourt swing, forcing him to retire from his match in Toronto and casting doubt over his US Open participation.
His coach, former pro Wayne Ferreira, has been vocal about the delicate balancing act. "Jack's body is still adapting to the rigors of the tour. He's such a powerful athlete, and that puts strain on him. Our focus is on managing it smartly, not just for one tournament but for his entire career."
Ahead of his first-round match, Draper's preparation has been carefully calibrated. His training blocks have been shorter but more intense, with a significant portion of time dedicated to:
- Rehabilitation and strengthening exercises for his shoulder joint.
- Managing his service motion to reduce stress on the affected area.
- Extensive recovery protocols, including ice baths and physiotherapy.
Despite the limited match play, Draper remains optimistic, drawing confidence from his deep knowledge of the courts in New York. "I know I can play well here. The courts suit my game. I just have to trust my body and my shots," he said.
A New Role: British Number One
This year, Draper enters the tournament carrying a new mantle: the top-ranked British man. This status brings increased attention and pressure, a shift he is still learning to navigate.
The absence of the retired Andy Murray and the inconsistent form of his peers have placed Draper at the forefront of British tennis. It's a role he is growing into, both on and off the court.
He has spoken about the influence of Murray's legendary grit, particularly when playing through pain. "What Andy did throughout his career, fighting through injuries, it's inspirational. It shows you what is possible with the right mindset."
The Path Ahead in New York
The draw in New York presents a challenging but navigable path. As a seeded player, he will avoid other top contenders in the early rounds, but his first test will be a stern examination of his physical readiness.
All eyes will be on his service games—the velocity and frequency of his first serves will be the clearest indicator of his shoulder's health. His powerful, flat groundstrokes from the baseline remain a formidable weapon.
The key for Draper will be to navigate the first week efficiently, conserving energy and managing any flare-ups. If he can advance to the second week, his confidence and game will only grow stronger.
A Statement of Intent
For Jack Draper, the 2024 US Open is about more than defending ranking points. It is an opportunity to make a statement that he is here to stay, that he can overcome the physical hurdles that have plagued his young career, and that he is ready to compete for the biggest titles.
His journey is a compelling subplot to the tournament. Can the talented Brit harness the pain, use the experience of last year, and channel it into another deep run? The tennis world watches with bated breath.
As he succinctly put it in a recent interview, "It's never straightforward, is it? But I wouldn't want it any other way. This is what I've worked for. I'm ready to fight."
The fight begins anew on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows, a place where Jack Draper has already proven he knows how to win, even when he's not at 100 percent.