Jack Draper set for competitive return in Davis Cup qualifier
Jack Draper is poised to make his long-awaited return to competitive tennis this week as Great Britain face Norway in their Davis Cup qualifier in Oslo, reports BritPanorama.
The British number one, aged 24, has been sidelined since last summer due to bone bruising in his left arm, having played only one singles match since his second-round exit from Wimbledon. His 2025 campaign was effectively written off by the persistent injury, which first emerged during the clay-court season in spring.
Draper had enjoyed a stellar run prior to his injury, capturing his maiden Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells and climbing to a career-best world ranking of fourth in June. However, the lengthy recovery has tested his resilience, with Draper acknowledging the psychological challenges during his rehabilitation.
“You’re kind of like in a hole and you need to get yourself out of that hole somehow, especially with a long injury,” he told Sky Sports from Oslo. He further described the process as particularly challenging, comparing it unfavourably to more straightforward injuries, saying, “It’s not like a hamstring or a bad ankle or something where you know the timeline for your recovery.”
Despite the ordeal, Draper maintains he has emerged stronger, feeling “physically in amazing shape” after extensive training during his downtime. He expressed optimism about his readiness, stating, “I would say I’m a better player than I was six months ago from all the things I’ve been doing.”
Sky Sports Tennis correspondent Jonathan Overend noted that Draper has appeared sharp in practice sessions, “hitting the ball as fiercely as ever.” The Briton’s steadfastness through these trying months is indicative of his dedication to his craft.
With plans to defend his Indian Wells title next month, Draper emphasized his commitment to returning at full fitness: “I’m not coming back from this injury at just 80 or 70 per cent,” he said, expressing a belief that he could reach peak form quickly. He recognizes that tennis remains a confidence sport where match practice is crucial, yet he insists he feels ready to compete once more.
As Draper prepares for his first competitive outing in nearly a year, there is a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding his return — a reminder of the fine line between triumph and adversity in professional sport.
