Jack Draper has been back on a tennis court and has progressed to the second round of the US Open.
Great Britain’s number one came through in four sets against Argentine star Federico Agustin Gomez, with his fitness looking pretty good despite some concerns.
Draper admitted to being surprised by the standard of tennis at the US Open mixed doubles event last week as he tuned up for the main event.
Jessica Pegula praised Draper after featuring in the tournament alongside him and now the Great Britain star can look forward to his second round match in a couple of days.
How close Jack Draper came to pulling out of the US Open
Given his fitness problems following Wimbledon, Draper gave himself an extended break from competitive action.
He’s now conceded that he came close to not playing at Flushing Meadows, such has been the severity of his fitness worries.
He said in his on-court interview: “It’s unbelievable to be out here in New York playing on Louis Armstrong.
“I wasn’t too sure I’d be able to make it here this year.
“We did a great job with the team since Wimbledon to get myself back on court. It wasn’t my finest performance, but credit to my opponent.
“He played some outstanding tennis. I look forward to hopefully improving and getting better as the tournament goes on.”
Draper can be dangerous after period of rest
Draper would have been crestfallen to lose at the second round stage of Wimbledon again and he does have a good draw in the second round of the US Open.
The 23-year-old will face Belgian player Zizou Bergs for a place in round three and it’s a match where the world number five will fancy his chances.
Draper reached the semifinal in New York last year before vomiting on the court and losing to Jannik Sinner after battling horrendous dehydration and fatigue.
Given what he’s gone through ahead of the US Open this year, there will be no pressure on his shoulders and that could make him a very dangerous player as the tournament progresses.
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