British tennis star Jack Draper is making waves at the US Open, reaching the semifinals and drawing inspiration from Emma Raducanu's remarkable victory in 2021. Draper, set to face world No.1 Jannik Sinner in the semifinals, credits Raducanu and Andy Murray for motivating his journey at Flushing Meadows.
Draper, at 22 years old, has yet to drop a set in the tournament, echoing Raducanu's Cinderella story last year where she went from qualifier to champion. Reflecting on Raducanu's achievement, Draper expressed pride and excitement, highlighting her fairytale run as a driving force for his own aspirations of winning a Grand Slam.
Despite Raducanu's post-Slam challenges with injuries and fitness, Draper urges critics to be patient and allow her the time needed to regain top form. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the physical and mental demands on Raducanu, especially considering her rapid rise to success after completing her A-Levels.
Draper acknowledges the immense pressure on Raducanu post-victory and stresses the significance of building a solid foundation for sustained success on the professional tour. He believes that Raducanu's journey requires time and dedication to reach her full potential.
Draper's quest to become the first British male singles champion at the US Open since Murray's win in 2012 has seen him defeat a series of opponents in straight sets, showcasing his determination and skill on the court.
As Draper prepares for his semifinal clash, his admiration for Raducanu's resilience and Murray's legacy serves as a source of motivation, underscoring the camaraderie and support within the British tennis community.
