LONDON — British tennis sensation Jack Draper has stormed into the semi-finals of the Cinch Championships at Queen’s Club, marking a significant milestone in his career and setting the stage for a thrilling Wimbledon warm-up. The 22-year-old left-hander delivered a dominant performance against American Tommy Paul, securing a 6-1, 6-4 victory in just 67 minutes.
Draper’s emphatic win not only cements his status as one of Britain’s brightest prospects but also sends a strong message to his rivals ahead of Wimbledon. "I’ve worked so hard for moments like this," Draper said in his post-match interview. "To be in the semi-finals at Queen’s is a dream come true."
A Commanding Performance
Draper’s victory over world No. 13 Paul was nothing short of clinical. The Brit showcased his powerful serve, firing down 10 aces and winning 88% of his first-serve points. His aggressive baseline play and sharp net approaches left Paul scrambling, unable to find a foothold in the match.
Key highlights from Draper’s performance:
- Won 6 of 7 break points
- Dropped just 5 points on serve in the first set
- Hit 22 winners to Paul’s 9
A Breakthrough Season
This year has been a turning point for Draper, who has battled injuries in the past. After winning his maiden ATP title in Stuttgart last week, he has now extended his winning streak to seven matches. His rise has been meteoric—climbing from outside the top 100 at the start of 2024 to a projected top 30 ranking after Queen’s.
Former British No. 1 Tim Henman praised Draper’s progress, telling the BBC: "Jack’s game has matured so much. His serve is a weapon now, and his movement is exceptional for a big guy. He’s got all the tools to go deep at Wimbledon."
Wimbledon Hopes Soar
With Wimbledon just around the corner, Draper’s form couldn’t be better timed. His success on grass—a surface that suits his big serve and flat groundstrokes—has made him a dark horse for the Championships. Should he maintain this momentum, he could be Britain’s best hope for a deep run at SW19.
Draper acknowledged the growing expectations but remained focused: "I know people will talk about Wimbledon, but right now, I’m just taking it one match at a time. Queen’s is a massive tournament, and I want to win it."
Next Challenge: Alcaraz or Korda
In the semi-finals, Draper will face either defending champion Carlos Alcaraz or Sebastian Korda. A potential clash with Alcaraz—who defeated him in last year’s Queen’s quarter-finals—would be a blockbuster rematch. Draper, however, is unfazed: "Whoever it is, I’ll be ready. I’ve beaten top players before, and I believe I can do it again."
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
Jack Draper’s rapid ascent has electrified British tennis fans. His blend of power, precision, and composure under pressure suggests he is destined for the sport’s upper echelons. As he prepares for his Queen’s semi-final, one thing is clear: Draper is no longer just a promising talent—he’s a genuine contender.
With Wimbledon looming, the tennis world will be watching closely. If Draper can maintain this form, he may well deliver Britain its first men’s singles champion at SW19 since Andy Murray in 2016.