Will Draper Shine in His US Open Opener Against a Qualifier?

Jack Draper, currently ranked fifth in the world, is set to kick off his campaign at the US Open against a qualifier, aiming to surpass his remarkable performance from last year. The British men's number one reached the semi-finals in 2022, losing to Jannik Sinner, who went on to become the champion. Draper may face Sinner again in the quarter-finals of this year's tournament.

Last updated: 27 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Jack Draper begins his US Open journey against an unseeded qualifier.
• Emma Raducanu aims for a strong return to the US Open, facing a qualifier in her opening match.
• Other British players, including Katie Boulter and Sonay Kartal, face seeded opponents in the first round.
• The men's and women's singles draws feature a mix of established champions and rising stars.
• The tournament will commence on a Sunday this year, a shift from its traditional Monday start.

Jack Draper’s Rise in Tennis

Jack Draper’s ascent in the world of tennis has been impressive, particularly over the past 18 months. His ranking of fifth reflects a combination of skill, determination, and recent successes on the court. At just 23 years old, Draper has demonstrated a maturity and ability to compete at the highest levels, making him a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming US Open.

Last Year’s Performance at the US Open

During the 2022 US Open, Draper made headlines by reaching the semi-finals, showcasing his talent against some of the best players in the world. His journey ended with a loss to Jannik Sinner, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament. This year, he has the opportunity to build on that experience and aim for an even deeper run.

Emma Raducanu’s Return to the US Open

Emma Raducanu, another prominent British player and the 2021 US Open champion, also begins her campaign against a qualifier. At 22, Raducanu is looking to recapture the magic of her stunning triumph two years ago. She is poised for potential matchups against high-calibre players, including 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, should she progress through the rounds.

Raducanu’s Recent Form

Raducanu's preparations have included playing doubles with Rybakina in Washington, which can only enhance her competitive edge. Despite facing challenges in the past year, her experience and past success at the US Open could serve as a significant advantage in the upcoming matches.

Other British Contenders

This year, four other British players have gained direct entry into the US Open singles draws based on their rankings. Notably, Katie Boulter and Sonay Kartal face tough challenges against seeded opponents in their first-round matches, while Cameron Norrie and Jacob Fearnley are also set for competitive fixtures.

Matchups to Watch

Here’s a quick overview of the first-round matchups for the British players:

• Katie Boulter vs. Marta Kostyuk (UKR) - Seeded player
• Sonay Kartal vs. Beatriz Haddad Maia (BRA) - Seeded player
• Cameron Norrie vs. Sebastian Korda (USA) - Unseeded opponent
• Jacob Fearnley vs. Roberto Bautista Agut (ESP) - Experienced player

Format and Schedule Changes for the US Open

For the first time, the singles matches of the US Open will commence on a Sunday, a shift aimed at accommodating a larger audience and enhancing the overall experience for fans. This change reflects the tournament's efforts to evolve and attract more spectators, both in-person and through broadcasts.

The Hard Court Challenge

The US Open is played on hard courts, which can significantly influence the style of play. Players must adapt to the faster surface, often requiring explosive serves and quick reflexes. This environment can favour aggressive players like Draper and Raducanu, who thrive on hard courts.

Potential Challenges Ahead

As Draper and Raducanu set their sights on advancing in the tournament, they face numerous challenges. The unpredictability of qualifiers and the potential matchups against seeded players add layers of complexity to their paths. Additionally, the pressure of performing well on such a significant stage can weigh heavily on any player.

What’s at Stake?

Success at the US Open not only brings prestige but also valuable ranking points and prize money. For Draper, further advancement could solidify his place among the world's elite, while Raducanu aims to reignite her career after a series of ups and downs since her 2021 win.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

As the US Open draws closer, the excitement builds for Draper, Raducanu, and the other British players. Their respective journeys are filled with potential, and fans are eager to see how they will perform under pressure. Each match will be a testament to their hard work, resilience, and passion for tennis.

Will Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu make their mark once again at the US Open? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is palpable. #USTennis #JackDraper #EmmaRaducanu

FAQs

What is Jack Draper's current ranking in tennis?

Jack Draper is currently ranked fifth in the world, reflecting his strong performances over the past 18 months.

Who did Emma Raducanu defeat to win the US Open in 2021?

Emma Raducanu won the US Open in 2021 by defeating Leylah Fernandez in the final, marking a historic victory for the young British player.

When does the US Open start this year?

This year's US Open singles matches will begin on Sunday, a change from the traditional Monday start.

What surface is the US Open played on?

The US Open is played on hard courts, which can significantly influence the style and pace of play throughout the tournament.

How many British players are participating in the US Open singles draws?

Four British players have gained direct entry into the singles draws, alongside Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu.