Jack Draper has made it to the semi-finals of the US Open, dominating 10th seed Alex de Minaur in his first Grand Slam quarter-final with a score of 6-3, 7-5, 6-2.
With this victory, Draper becomes the first British man to reach the final four at Flushing Meadows since Andy Murray won the tournament in 2012. The 22-year-old is yet to drop a set in the tournament and will next face the winner of the match between world No. 1 Jannik Sinner and 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev.
Starting strong against an off-color De Minaur, reports indicated that the Australian had cut short his previous practice session, allowing Draper to capitalize. He secured two breaks of serve in the opening set, despite missing five set points before finally converting on a powerful cross-court forehand.
Although Draper momentarily struggled with a hamstring issue in the second set, he regained his composure after being broken back at 4-4. He then broke De Minaur once more at 6-5 and served out the set to take a two-set lead. Draper wrapped up the match comfortably in the third set, ensuring he hasn’t dropped a set throughout the tournament, reminiscent of Emma Raducanu’s stunning title run in 2021.
For De Minaur, this loss marks his third consecutive quarter-final exit at a Grand Slam event.
Draper: “A Dream Come True”
Speaking courtside after his victory, Draper said: “It’s amazing. To be out here in my first match on the biggest court in the world is a dream come true for me. I played a solid match and feel the best fitness-wise I’ve been in a long time.”
He also recognized De Minaur’s talent, stating, “Credit to Alex, he’s an amazing fighter and an unbelievable player. We’ll have many more battles to come.”
Tim Henman’s Take
Sky Sports’ Tim Henman praised Draper’s performance, saying, “He can be proud of so many aspects. He played great tennis and handled the physical challenges well. He stamped his authority early in the first set and managed opportunities effectively.”
As the tournament progresses, Draper looks to build on this momentum in the semi-finals.
Upcoming Matches on Sky Sports Tennis in September:
- Jasmin Open, Tunisia – WTA 250 (September 9-15)
- Guadalajara Open, Mexico – WTA 500 (September 9-15)
- Korea Open – WTA 500 (September 16-22, featuring Emma Raducanu)
- Thailand Open – WTA 250 (September 16-22)
Credit: Sky Sports
