Jack Draper made history at the US Open, becoming the first British man in over a decade to reach the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows. The 22-year-old delivered a commanding performance, defeating 10th seed Alex de Minaur 6-3, 7-5, 6-2 to secure his spot in the final four. His win sets up a highly anticipated clash with world number one, Jannik Sinner.
Playing on the prestigious Arthur Ashe Stadium for the first time, Draper showcased his impressive form, controlling the match from the outset. Despite some physical concerns—he received treatment for a leg injury in the second set—Draper remained focused, outplaying De Minaur, who appeared to struggle with his own fitness issues. Draper’s powerful left-handed serve and devastating forehand helped him breeze through the first set, before withstanding a brief surge from the Australian in the second.
Draper, who has yet to drop a set in the tournament, now mirrors the sensational run of Emma Raducanu’s 2021 US Open victory. His rise has been swift, overcoming injury setbacks last year to become British number one and now reaching his first Grand Slam semi-final.
Reflecting on the win, Draper said, “It’s a dream come true to play here. I think Alex was struggling a bit today, which may have helped me, but I feel like I’m playing my best tennis.”
Draper will face Jannik Sinner, who knocked out 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev in four sets. The two are good friends and former doubles partners, adding a layer of intrigue to their upcoming semi-final. While Sinner enters as the favorite, Draper is ready for the challenge and will have 48 hours to recover before the biggest match of his career.
With his victory, Draper continues a remarkable journey, carrying British hopes for a potential Grand Slam title in New York.
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