In a moment of pure, unscripted brilliance at Flushing Meadows, British tennis's rising star Jack Draper was caught on camera making a brilliantly cheeky proposal to American world-beater Jessica Pegula.
The scene unfolded courtside mere moments after Draper had sealed a magnificent quarter-final victory, securing his place in the last four of the US Open. With adrenaline still pumping, the 22-year-old Londoner spotted his potential future partner and decided to shoot his shot.
'So... mixed doubles?' Draper quipped with a grin, catching the world number five completely off guard. The spontaneous invitation was met with a burst of laughter from Pegula, who seemed both surprised and amused by the Brit's boldness.
This hilarious exchange offers a rare glimpse into the lighter side of elite sport, showcasing the camaraderie and humour that exists between competitors off the court. It wasn't a formal negotiation through agents, but a genuine, spur-of-the-moment question between two athletes at the top of their game.
Draper, who has rocketed to British number one on the back of his phenomenal run in New York, has been turning heads with both his powerful playing style and his growing confidence. This incident proves his self-assurance extends beyond the baseline.
While Pegula's response was one of laughter rather than an immediate signed contract, the moment has set tennis forums and social media alight. Fans are now fervently speculating whether 'Team Dregula' could become a reality in a future Grand Slam, imagining the potent combination of Draper's formidable left-handed game and Pegula's relentless baseline prowess.
The video clip has since gone viral, becoming one of the most talked-about moments of the tournament, proving that sometimes the best entertainment happens when the microphones are still hot.
