Britain's top-ranked male tennis player, Jack Draper, has confirmed he will not participate in the upcoming Australian Open, dealing a significant blow to British hopes at the first Grand Slam of the year.
Recovery Takes Priority Over Grand Slam Return
The world number 10 made the announcement via a video posted on social media platform X on Boxing Day. Draper revealed that, following extensive discussions with his team, the decision was made to skip the tournament in Melbourne to ensure his long-term recovery.
Draper has contested just a single competitive match since his Wimbledon campaign, with a persistent issue described as bone bruising in his left arm bringing his 2025 season to a premature halt.
A 'Really Tough' Decision for the British Number One
In his candid address to fans, the 23-year-old expressed the difficulty of missing a major championship. "It's a really, really tough decision, obviously," Draper stated. "Australia being a Grand Slam, it's one of the biggest tournaments in our sport."
He emphasised the cautious approach being taken, explaining that while he is in the final stages of rehabilitation, the immediate jump into the demanding best-of-five-set format required at a major was deemed an unwise risk. "To step back on court into best-of-five-set tennis so soon just doesn't seem like a smart decision right now for me and my tennis," he added.
What This Means for Draper's Season
The withdrawal marks a frustrating setback for Draper, who had been establishing himself as a consistent force at the top of the game. His absence will be keenly felt in the British contingent at the Australian Open, which begins in mid-January.
The injury, which has plagued him since the summer, underscores the physical demands of the modern tennis tour. No specific timeline has been given for his return to competition, but the focus remains on achieving full fitness before he makes his comeback.
This development leaves a gap in the draw for the season's opening Grand Slam and places British hopes largely on the shoulders of other players like Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans.
