Jack Draper Falls to Jannik Sinner in Dramatic US Open Semi

Cataleya

September 07, 2024 · 1 min read

Jack Draper Falls to Jannik Sinner in Dramatic US Open Semi
Other Sports | September 07, 2024
Jack Draper sought to become the third British man to reach the US Open final in the Open era. (Image: Getty)

Jack Draper faced a dramatic defeat in the US Open semi-final against world number one Jannik Sinner, losing 7-5, 7-6 (7-3), 6-2. Draper, 22, struggled physically during the match, vomiting on court three times in the second set. Despite causing early problems for Sinner in the tight first set, Draper’s condition worsened as the contest progressed and he couldn’t capitalize on his opportunities.

The left-hander from Surrey showed resilience but ultimately couldn’t inflict enough damage on Sinner’s serve. The third set slipped out of Draper’s control as Sinner advanced to his first US Open final where he will face American 12th seed Taylor Fritz. Draper visibly fatigued, warmly embraced his friend Sinner after the match.

Draper acknowledged his anxiety, explaining that stress builds up during crucial moments, which contributed to his physical struggles. “I didn’t have any problems before the match, but it obviously just built up,” he said. Despite the setback, Draper has enjoyed a breakthrough season, winning his first ATP title and becoming Britain’s top-ranked player.

His run to the semi-finals, in the first major since Andy Murray’s retirement, marks a significant achievement. Sinner praised Draper’s performance, calling the match “very physical” and crediting Draper for his tough play. The Italian, aiming for his second major title after winning the Australian Open showed his class by stepping up in the key moments.

Draper’s progress this year, especially his rise to the top 20, promises more exciting moments ahead for British tennis. While this defeat may sting, Jack Draper can take pride in his remarkable two-week run in New York setting the stage for a bright future.