British No. 1 Jack Draper’s inspiring run at the Australian Open came to an unfortunate end as he retired injured during his fourth-round match against Spanish third seed Carlos Alcaraz. Trailing 7-5, 6-1 on a scorching day in Melbourne, Draper was forced to halt play due to persistent hip issues.
The 23-year-old, seeded 15th, entered the tournament with a hip injury and faced immense physical strain after three consecutive five-set matches. Despite battling valiantly, the workload proved too much against the reigning Wimbledon champion.
How the Match Unfolded
Draper began the match with determination but struggled with movement early in the first set, visibly favoring his left leg. After a lengthy medical timeout, he continued but was unable to match Alcaraz’s intensity:
- First Set: Alcaraz’s serve lacked consistency, with a first-serve percentage of 40% in the early games. However, Draper couldn’t capitalize on two break points, and Alcaraz ultimately clinched the set 7-5 with aggressive play.
- Second Set: Alcaraz increased his aggression, breaking Draper’s serve early to establish a 3-0 lead. Draper’s mobility worsened, and he retired after the set ended 6-1.
Alcaraz, 21, expressed his sympathy for Draper:
“It is not the way which I want to win. I wish him a speedy recovery,” Alcaraz said.
Draper’s Grueling Journey
Draper’s impressive run to the fourth round included three five-set victories, but the physical toll was evident:
- Preparation Concerns: Draper admitted he had only 10 days of preparation before the tournament.
- Heat Challenge: Playing in 34°C heat against a player of Alcaraz’s athleticism exacerbated his hip issues.
Draper acknowledged the challenges he faced:
“From the third game, I had multiple areas in pain—especially the hip,” he said. “It’s been a ticking time bomb given the lack of preparation.”
Alcaraz’s Pursuit of History
Alcaraz, already a four-time Grand Slam champion, continues his bid to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam. His remodeled serve has been a focal point, although it remains a work in progress:
- Serve Stats: Alcaraz hit 14 aces in his second-round match but struggled with consistency against Draper, committing several double faults in the first set.
- Quarter-Final Showdown: Alcaraz will face Novak Djokovic, who defeated Jiri Lehecka in straight sets, as he chases his first Australian Open title.
Draper’s Bright Future
Despite the disappointing end, Draper’s performance showcased his potential:
- Best Australian Open Run: Draper reached the fourth round for the first time, making him the only Briton to advance that far in men’s or women’s singles.
- Positive Signs: His resilience in earlier rounds and competitive spirit against Alcaraz highlight his ability to compete at the highest level when fully fit.
What’s Next?
Draper will focus on recovery to ensure long-term fitness, while Alcaraz moves closer to achieving a historic milestone in Melbourne.
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