So demanding is the sport of tennis that Jack Draper is back in action at the Davis Cup just a few days after his captivating run to the US Open semi-finals.
Draper produced some of his most impressive tennis to cruise into the last four of a major for the first time in his fledgling career, but eventually came unstuck by the physicality required to go toe-to-toe with the world one number one, Jannik Sinner.
It’s been a quick turnaround since then for the 22-year-old, who arrived back in Manchester on Tuesday to represent his country at this year’s Davis Cup Finals.
Draper was ruled out of their opener against Finland on Wednesday but is expected to make an appearance against Argentina on Friday.
Jack Draper reflects on time since US Open campaign
Jack Draper made his debut for Team GB at the Davis Cup Finals last year, where he was considered the novice in the team.
However, this time around, after a compelling performance at the US Open, the British number one will lead the team in their first team tournament in a post-Andy Murray era.
Speaking ahead of their clash with Argentina, Draper reflected on his time since the spectacular run in New York.
“I feel calm, I feel good. I’ve been working hard for a long time,” Draper said. “I’ve been trying to move forward with my tennis and I’ve been waiting for that big thing to come.
“Obviously, making semis of a grand slam and being in that position is something that I’ve been wanting to do. So I feel really good about that. It’s good to show my hard work and my game and how that’s coming together.
“But, in a sport like tennis where everything is so relentless, it’s hard to reflect and so I’m here now [at Davis Cup] and I want to do my best for the team. When I get a prolonged period I’ll definitely look back and be very proud of myself.”
Minimal rest, but Draper eyes Davis Cup success
It is uncertain how well-rested Draper will be before their upcoming Group D clash with Argentina on Friday, but what is certain is that he will do his utmost to be ready in time to represent his country.
Draper played a strong part in GB’s route to the Davis Cup quarter-finals in 2023, with an impressive comeback win over Thanasi Kokkinakis in the group stage.
However, he was forced to rue missed opportunities in Malaga, losing out to Novak Djokovic‘s Serbia in the knockouts.
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Things are different this time around, however, with Draper coming off the back of an inspiring run to the semi-finals of the US Open, displaying the punishing tennis he is capable of producing.
Canada will pose the most potent threat in GB’s group, with two former world number 10’s headlining their squad, but Draper is expected to be fit and raring to go come Sunday.
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