Jack Draper to breach rankings barrier with ‘special occasion’ US Open victory

Jack Draper is into the third round of a Slam for the first time in his career at the US Open, and will likely break inside the world’s top 50 for the first time to boot. 

The 20-year-old Brit is making his main draw debut at the US Open, and came up against more experienced 22-year-old sixth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the second round. But it was the younger man who looked the stronger and more battle hardened as he dismissed the Canadian 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

His second career top 10 win, Jack Draper defeated world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round of the Canadian Masters last month for his first.

“Obviously Felix is an incredibly tough opponent, that’s why he’s at the top of the game,” Draper began his post-match interview. “He made semi-finals here last year, so he loves the venue. I played a really good match today. Thank you to everyone who supported me, I appreciate it. Special occasion out here.”

“I’ve always had the tennis ability, it’s just been about staying fit and staying on court. I’m lucky to have amazing people around on a daily basis which helps a lot. So I’m glad to be here today.”

The win takes Draper up to 46th in the live ATP rankings, just a few spots behind three-time Slam champion Andy Murray, taking the number of British men in the top 50 to four alongside Dan Evans and Cameron Norrie.

Next up, Draper will take on 27th seed Karen Khachanov for a chance to reach the second week of a Major for the first time in his young career.

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