British tennis talent Jack Draper has been forced to make a difficult decision regarding his competitive comeback, withdrawing from an upcoming exhibition event in the capital.
Injury Forces London Withdrawal
Jack Draper has officially pulled out of this weekend's Ultimate Tennis Showdown (UTS) event in London. The promising British player is continuing to grapple with a persistent arm issue that has significantly disrupted his season since his participation at Wimbledon.
The problem, diagnosed as bone bruising in his left arm, has severely limited his match play. Draper has contested just one singles match since Wimbledon and has not played at all since the US Open, highlighting the ongoing nature of the setback.
A 'Tough Call' for Recovery
Announcing his decision on social media, Draper described it as a “tough call” but stated he was “just not quite ready” to compete. He revealed that medical advice has directed him to allow more time for a full recovery, prioritising long-term fitness over a premature return.
His scheduled return to the tour is now set for the United Cup, a mixed-team event taking place in Perth, Australia, in early January. This new timeline provides him with several additional weeks for rehabilitation and preparation.
Looking Ahead to 2024
This withdrawal represents another frustrating delay for Draper, who is widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in British tennis. Managing his physical condition is clearly the paramount concern as he aims to build a consistent and injury-free 2024 season.
Fans hoping to see him in action on home soil will now have to wait, with his focus firmly on being fully fit for the start of the new tennis year in Australia.