Jack Draper Returns to Form with Dubai Victory
Jack Draper, currently ranked 15th, has made a successful return to the ATP Tour after a six-month absence. The top-ranked male tennis player in the UK secured his first win since his return by defeating France’s Quentin Halys (68th, qualifier) 7-6(8) 6-3 in the first round of the ATP 500 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on February 23rd.
Injury and Recovery
Draper’s return comes after a prolonged period sidelined by a left arm injury, first showing signs of discomfort during the clay season last year. He was diagnosed with a bruised humerus in the second round of Wimbledon and subsequently withdrew before the second round of the 2025 US Open [ESPN]. This led to an extended rehabilitation period, causing him to drop out of the top 10 in the world rankings by October 27th and miss the Australian Open.
Return to Competition
Prior to the Dubai Championships, Draper made his official return at the Davis Cup, achieving a straight-set victory over Viktor Durasovic of Norway, ranked 400th in the world. England won the qualifying match 4-0, advancing to the second round.
Dubai Performance
Draper continued his winning momentum at the Dubai Championships, overcoming Halys in his first match against a top-100 player in some time. He played wearing a compression sleeve to support his injured arm. The first set was closely contested, going to a tiebreak, but Draper demonstrated composure to secure the win.
He took a 3-1 lead in the second set with a break in the fourth game, maintaining a strong service game with an 86% first serve success rate. Draper recorded 19 of his 24 winners with his left forehand, the area previously injured.
Looking Ahead
“It wasn’t an easy road back here, but I’m really proud of the fact that I was able to get back on my feet. I hope I can stay in this position for a long time to arrive,” Draper stated.
Draper will face Arthur Landerkneche (France, 31st) in the second round. This will be their second meeting, with Draper having won their previous encounter at the 2022 Paris Masters.
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