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What happened when Jack Draper played a practice set against Ben Shelton ahead of the Washington Open

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Jack Draper and Ben Shelton have been preparing for the Washington Open together.

Both players have had a disappointing month for differing reasons, with Draper withdrawing from Wimbledon due to his recurring arm injury.

While Shelton lost in the first round of Wimbledon to qualifier Otto Virtanen, despite many predicting him to reach the final.

As both players look to return to form at the Washington Open, a practice set between Draper and Shelton produced a surprisingly one-sided scoreline.

Jack Draper reacts during his match at the 2026 Eastbourne Open.
Photo by Charlie Crowhurst/Getty Images for LTA

Jack Draper comfortably wins practice set against Ben Shelton

Draper is joined by Andy Murray at the Washington Open, as they continue their coaching collaboration after the grass court season.

Murray was vocally impressed by Draper’s return during his practice set against Shelton, which he won 6-1, as reported by Christian’s Court.

There also appeared to be no signs of any arm issues for Draper, who was serving well against Shelton.

This actually raised concerns more for Shelton, who was struggling on his forehand in particular against Draper.

Both players are competing in the singles draw at the Washington Open, while Shelton also competes alongside Ecuadorian Daniel Hidalgo in the doubles tournament.

Who is to blame for Jack Draper’s injury issues?

Jack Draper of Great Britain looks dejected against Marin Cilic of Croatia during the Gentlemen's Singles second round match on day four of The Championships Wimbledon 2025 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 03, 2025 in London, England.
Photo by Hannah Peters/Getty Images

Who is Jack Draper playing at the Washington Open this year?

Despite being a former world number four, Draper required a wildcard for the Washington Open this year after dropping outside the top 140 as a result of his injury woes.

Draper will look to start making his way back up the rankings in Washington D.C., where he faces American Alex Michelsen in the first round.

This will be a first meeting between the two players, with a potential second round match against fifth seed Learner Tien for Draper if he is able to beat Michelsen.

Some of the other potential threats to Draper in his half of the draw include Taylor Fritz and defending champion Alex de Minaur.

A graphic of Jack Draper's draw for the 2026 Washington Open.

Draper can only play Shelton at the Washington Open if both players are able to reach the final.

The main draw of the Washington Open will get underway on Monday, July 27.