Jack Draper: The British Tennis Star’s Journey to the US Open Semi-Finals

Jack Draper has made history as the fourth British man in the Open era to reach the US Open singles semi-finals, joining the ranks of Andy Murray, Greg Rusedski, and Tim Henman. His impressive victories over Zhang Zhizhen, Facundo Diaz Acosta, Botic van de Zandschulp, Tomas Machac, and Alex de Minaur have paved his way to the semi-finals, where he faces world number one Jannik Sinner.

Here’s a look at Draper’s inspiring tennis journey that has led him to this remarkable achievement.

Early Signs of Promise at Wimbledon
From a young age, Draper was recognized as a rising star within British tennis, but it was his performance in the Wimbledon juniors in 2018 that garnered wider attention. At just 16, Draper made an impressive run to the final, defeating notable opponents such as Lorenzo Musetti and Nicolas Majia. Although he lost in the final to Tseng Chun-hsin, his marathon semi-final win showcased his determination and potential.

A Breakout Year and a Win Over the Wimbledon Champion
Draper’s breakthrough came in 2024 when he secured his first ATP title at the Stuttgart Open in June, marking his rise to British number one. However, his standout moment came at Queen’s Club, where he faced reigning Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz in the second round. In a stunning display of calm and composure, Draper ended Alcaraz’s 13-match winning streak on grass, beating him 7-6 (7-3), 6-3.

On the Path to Tennis Greatness
For years, Andy Murray was the face of British tennis, with no clear successor in sight. Draper stepped into the conversation after taking a set off Novak Djokovic during his Wimbledon debut in 2021. Despite setbacks with injuries, Draper’s return to full fitness in 2024 has solidified his status as a rising force. Murray himself has praised Draper’s talent and potential, predicting great success for his fellow Briton.

Draper’s run at the US Open has proven Murray’s faith well-placed, as he now stands alongside British tennis legends as a semi-finalist in New York.

Conclusion
Jack Draper’s journey to the US Open semi-finals is a testament to his resilience, talent, and determination. As he prepares for the biggest challenge of his career against Jannik Sinner, Draper’s story is one of continued growth and ambition. With British tennis fans behind him, he is poised to make even greater strides on the world stage.