The electric atmosphere of Flushing Meadows was dimmed by a somber note on August 27, 2025, as British tennis star Jack Draper, the No. 5 seed and a semifinalist at the previous year’s US Open, announced his withdrawal from the 2025 tournament due to a persistent left arm injury. The 23-year-old, whose meteoric rise has captivated fans, was forced to step back just before his second-round match against Zizou Bergs, leaving the tennis world reeling and the Belgian advancing to the third round via walkover. Draper’s exit, a rare occurrence for a top-five seed in the Open era, marks a significant setback for the young star who had arrived in New York with high hopes of building on his 2024 heroics.
Draper’s journey to the 2025 US Open was already fraught with challenges. Sidelined since a second-round loss to Marin Cilic at Wimbledon in July, he had been battling bone stress and bruising in his left humerus, an injury that first surfaced during the clay-court season. The pain, which intensified when hitting forehands and serves, forced him to skip key hard-court events like the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open. Despite these setbacks, Draper’s determination shone through. He tested his recovery by competing in the US Open mixed doubles alongside Jessica Pegula, reaching the semifinals—a feat that gave him confidence to take on the singles draw. “With the injury I had in my arm, the return to competition is probably about eight weeks; I’m here seven weeks, so I’m early,” he told reporters after his grueling first-round win over qualifier Federico Agustin Gomez, a 6-4, 7-5, 6-7(7), 6-2 battle that showcased his resilience but also hinted at his physical fragility.
That first-round match, played on August 25, was a testament to Draper’s grit. Despite admitting his arm felt like it was “shutting down” on serves and forehands, he pushed through, relying on tactical nous and a steely mindset. However, the discomfort proved too much to continue. In a heartfelt social media post, Draper shared his devastation: “Hi guys, I’m sorry to say I’ll be withdrawing from the US Open. I tried my very best to be here and give myself every chance to play, but the discomfort in my arm has become too much and I have to do what is right and look after myself. Thank you for all the support.” His words resonated with fans, who have watched him climb to a career-high world No. 4, fueled by a 30-9 record in 2025, including a title at Indian Wells and finals in Doha and Madrid.
The withdrawal not only alters the men’s draw but also carries significant implications for Draper’s season. Positioned in the top half, he was a potential quarterfinal foe for world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, against whom he fell in last year’s semifinals. His absence opens a path for players like Bergs, who now faces either Gabriel Diallo or Jaume Munar, and possibly Lorenzo Musetti, in the quest for a quarterfinal spot. More critically, Draper’s ranking is set to drop to at least No. 7, and his qualification for the ATP Finals in Turin, where he currently sits seventh in the race, could be jeopardized. “I’m not doing any more damage to my arm, and I’m in a place where I can go out and compete,” he had said optimistically before the tournament, but the reality of his injury has forced a painful recalibration.
Draper’s story is one of resilience and promise. From his breakout 2024 US Open semifinal run to his Masters 1000 triumph at Indian Wells, he has shouldered the hopes of British tennis fans, especially with Andy Murray’s retirement looming large. Yet, his career has been punctuated by injuries, including this latest arm issue that echoes past struggles. The decision to withdraw reflects a mature, long-term view, prioritizing recovery over risking further damage. As he shifts focus to healing, Draper’s sights remain set on the season’s end, with the ATP Finals and beyond offering chances to reclaim his momentum. For now, the tennis world sends its support, hoping to see the charismatic left-hander back on court, swinging freely and chasing glory once more.
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