Jack Draper through to Next Gen semi-finals after ruthless display

Jack Draper defeated Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti 4-1 4-0 4-3 (3) to make the semi-finals of the ATP Next Gen Finals in Milan.

In a winner takes all clash, Draper, the world number 41, produced a brilliant display to silence the home fans and qualify from his group along with Dominic Stricker.

The 20-year old’s thundering forehands and powerful lefty serve consistently caused problems for Musetti, with the Italian having no answer.

The British number three was delighted with his offensive display and in beating a tough opponent in Musetti, the highest ranked player at the 21 and under event.

In his post-match interview, he said: ‘’Yesterday I played a bit better than my first match and then today I really hit some form.’’

‘’I played well, served great. Lorenzo is a great player and he may have been a bit tired after his match yesterday, but I am glad with the way I played today.’’

Draper has enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2022. He has won four Challenger events while he also made his maiden ATP Tour semi-final at the Eastbourne International.

He also defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime in straight sets at the US Open en route to making the third round, his best finish at a slam so far.

Musetti’s season ends earlier than he would have liked. Nevertheless, the Italian can look back on an encouraging year, with his first two career titles coming in Hamburg and Naples.

Jack Draper will now face American Brandon Nakashima for a place in the final. Stricker will play Jiri Lehecka in the other semi final.

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