The US Open has already delivered its fair share of drama, but this latest development is one that British tennis fans were dreading. World No. 5 Jack Draper, one of the sport’s brightest rising stars, has been forced to withdraw from the tournament ahead of his highly anticipated second-round clash with Belgium’s Zizou Bergs. The reason? An arm injury that simply would not allow him to continue.
For Draper, this is more than just a setback it’s a painful reminder of the fine line between pushing through adversity and knowing when to listen to your body.
A Promising Start Cut Short
Draper came into New York with plenty of questions surrounding his fitness. After all, the 23-year-old hadn’t played a single competitive match in over seven weeks. Earlier in the summer, he was diagnosed with bone bruising in his left humerus a painful and stubborn injury that requires time and patience to heal.
Yet despite the doubts, Draper showed his trademark grit in the opening round, grinding his way past Federico Agustin Gomez in four sets. That victory alone was impressive, not just because it ended his layoff, but because it gave fans hope that maybe, just maybe, the young Brit could go on another deep run in New York. After all, Draper knows what it takes here he reached the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows just last year, where his journey was cut short by eventual champion Jannik Sinner.
But as it turned out, the physical toll was simply too much.
Draper’s Honest Statement
Taking to social media, Draper broke the news himself, and his words carried the weight of disappointment.
“Hi guys, I’m sorry to say I’ll be withdrawing from the US Open. I tried my very best to be here and give myself every chance to play but the discomfort in my arm has become too much and I have to do what is right and look after myself. Thank you for all the support,” he wrote.
It’s never easy for an athlete to step aside, especially at a Grand Slam where opportunities are precious and the spotlight is so bright. But Draper’s message reflected maturity beyond his years an understanding that long-term health has to come first, even when the heart is urging otherwise.
What It Means For The Tournament
Draper’s withdrawal has immediately reshaped the second-round picture. Zizou Bergs, who was set to face him under the bright lights of New York, will now advance without having to swing a racket. The Belgian will meet either Gabriel Diallo or Jaume Munar in the third round, a massive opportunity to progress further than many would have expected at the start of the tournament.
For fans, though, the absence of Draper leaves a void. The young Brit has quickly become one of the sport’s most exciting players, his big lefty serve and fearless shot-making making him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the draw. His semi-final run in 2024 proved that he’s not just a future contender, but very much a present one.
Looking Ahead
The good news if there is any in this situation is that Draper is only 23. He has time on his side, and plenty of opportunities ahead to chase the kind of success that many already believe is inevitable. Still, injuries are cruel teachers, and for Draper, this US Open will serve as a painful reminder of how unpredictable a tennis career can be.
His decision to step away now might well be the best thing for his long-term ambitions. Protecting his arm and ensuring a full recovery could allow him to come back stronger for the indoor season and beyond. British tennis fans will no doubt be hoping this is just a brief pause in what promises to be a glittering career.