Jack Draper Miami Open match disrupted by fan exodus
Late court change for Joao Fonseca’s match prompts Brazilian fans to exit, causing chaos during the defeat Jack Draper faced to Jakub Mensik.
Jack Draper’s second-round match at the Miami Open took an unexpected turn when a scheduling decision led to an exodus of fans mid-match, creating a chaotic scene that disrupted play. Draper, fresh off his Indian Wells triumph, faced Czech teenager Jakub Mensik but struggled in the shifting atmosphere, ultimately falling 7-6(2), 7-6(3).
The disruption came when Miami Open officials abruptly changed the scheduled court for Brazilian wildcard Joao Fonseca’s match, relocating him to a smaller venue. The decision did not sit well with the passionate Brazilian supporters, who had packed Stadium Court in anticipation of his match. As word spread of the switch, the crowd began to boo loudly before exiting en masse, causing a wave of noise and movement that momentarily halted Draper’s match.
“It was a bit of a weird atmosphere,” Draper admitted afterward. “There was a lot going on in the stands, but credit to Jakub—he played really well.”
Mensik, who capitalized on Draper’s off-day, showed impressive composure to claim one of the biggest wins of his young career.
The controversy highlighted the logistical challenges of tournament scheduling and the fervent support for rising Brazilian star Fonseca, who eventually played, and won, on the reassigned court.
For Draper, it was a tough reality check after his breakthrough at Indian Wells, but the Brit will look to reset as the clay season approaches.
Inside the Baseline…
The chaotic atmosphere at the Draper-Mensik match in Miami was a reminder of how external distractions can shape the outcome of a match, no matter how mentally strong a player is. The abrupt shift in energy, caused by the frustrated Brazilian crowd, was a tough break for Draper, who had already been riding the high of his Indian Wells triumph. Maintaining focus in a match filled with momentum swings is challenging enough without the added noise and disruption. Mensik’s ability to hold his nerve and deliver clutch serving in both tiebreaks highlighted a level of composure beyond his years. Moments like these test a player’s ability to adapt, and this one proved just how unpredictable the sport can be.
READ NEXT: Another day of major upsets shake Miami Open
Join >> Receive $700/£600 of tennis gear from the Tennishead CLUB
Social >> Facebook, Twitter & YouTube
Read >> World’s best tennis magazine
Shop >> Lowest price tennis gear from our trusted partner
