Draper vows to overcome injury woes after Barcelona exit
British tennis player Jack Draper has pledged to recover from his recurring injury issues after being forced to retire during his first-round match at the Barcelona Open. The 24-year-old withdrew midway through his deciding set against Argentine Tomas Etcheverry due to a right leg problem, raising concerns about his fitness for the upcoming clay court season. This setback follows a six-month absence earlier in the year caused by a left arm injury. Although Draper recently achieved a notable victory over Novak Djokovic at Indian Wells, he has struggled with consistency, suffering early exits in Dubai and Miami, and withdrawing from Monte Carlo to protect his arm. Currently ranked 28th in the world, Draper expressed sadness over the retirement on social media but remained determined to work through his physical challenges. His opponent, Etcheverry, praised Draper's fighting spirit and expressed hope for his swift return to the tour. The incident casts doubt on Draper's preparation for the French Open, scheduled to begin on May 24, as he attempts to regain form and stability ahead of the grand slam event.
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Draper vows to overcome injury woes after Barcelona exit
British tennis player Jack Draper has pledged to recover from his recurring injury issues after being forced to retire during his first-round match at the Barcelona Open. The 24-year-old withdrew midway through his deciding set against Argentine Tomas Etcheverry due to a right leg problem, raising concerns about his fitness for the upcoming clay court season. This setback follows a six-month absence earlier in the year caused by a left arm injury. Although Draper recently achieved a notable victory over Novak Djokovic at Indian Wells, he has struggled with consistency, suffering early exits in Dubai and Miami, and withdrawing from Monte Carlo to protect his arm. Currently ranked 28th in the world, Draper expressed sadness over the retirement on social media but remained determined to work through his physical challenges. His opponent, Etcheverry, praised Draper's fighting spirit and expressed hope for his swift return to the tour. The incident casts doubt on Draper's preparation for the French Open, scheduled to begin on May 24, as he attempts to regain form and stability ahead of the grand slam event.
reuters