In a devastating blow to British tennis hopes, rising star Jack Draper has withdrawn from the inaugural United Cup due to a persistent hip injury. The 20-year-old, who soared to a career-high ranking of No. 41 this year, expressed his disappointment at missing out on the innovative mixed-gender team event.
“As I work to get on top of my hip injury and get match fit, I have unfortunately been advised not to play in the United Cup,” Draper revealed in a candid Instagram post. While optimistic about his chances of competing at the Australian Open in January, the young Brit acknowledged the need to carefully manage his recovery and avoid overloading his schedule.
A Breakout Season Derailed
Draper’s withdrawal comes on the heels of a career-defining 2024 season that saw him capture his first two ATP titles and surge into the world’s top 50. His explosive power and aggressive style drew comparisons to fellow left-hander Rafael Nadal, with many tipping him as a future Grand Slam contender.
However, the demanding ATP tour schedule appears to have taken its toll on Draper’s body. Hip injuries are notoriously difficult to manage in tennis, often requiring extended periods of rest and rehabilitation. For a player still in the early stages of his professional career, the setback is particularly concerning.
The Road to Recovery
While Draper remains hopeful of taking part in the Australian Open, his team will undoubtedly be cautious about rushing him back into action. The unforgiving hard courts of Melbourne Park have ended many a player’s campaign prematurely, and the risk of aggravating the injury is high.
I’m gutted as I was really looking forward to playing in the United Cup for the first time.
– Jack Draper
In the meantime, Draper will focus on intensive physiotherapy and strength training to rebuild his hip stability and power. He’ll also likely reassess his schedule for the first half of 2025, potentially opting for a reduced workload on hard courts in favor of the more forgiving clay.
Britain’s Great Hope
For British tennis fans, Draper’s injury is a bitter pill to swallow. After years in the wilderness, the nation appeared to have unearthed a genuine star capable of ending their long wait for a male Grand Slam singles champion. Draper’s pixie power and never-say-die attitude had quickly endeared him to the Wimbledon faithful.
- Draper reached the quarterfinals in his Wimbledon debut in 2024
- He became the first Brit to win multiple ATP titles in a season since Andy Murray
With Andy Murray now in the twilight of his illustrious career, the weight of expectation on Draper’s shoulders is immense. His ability to handle that pressure, both mentally and physically, will be severely tested in the coming months.
An Uncertain Future
As the 2025 season dawns, Jack Draper finds himself at a crossroads. Will he bounce back from this injury setback and fulfill his enormous potential? Or will he join the lengthy list of next-gen stars whose bodies betrayed them on the cusp of greatness?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the tennis world will be watching every step of his comeback with bated breath. For in Jack Draper, Britain has a player capable of conquering the sport’s greatest heights – if his body allows him.
While we are very positive about competing in the Australian Open this year, I know I won’t be able to jump straight into a packed schedule as I manage and strengthen my hip.
– Jack Draper
As he begins the arduous journey back to full fitness, Draper can take solace in the knowledge that he possesses a rare talent, a talent that, if carefully nurtured, could see him etch his name alongside the all-time greats of British tennis. The road ahead may be uncertain, but one thing is clear: Jack Draper’s story is far from over.
