Jack Draper ends season to recover from arm injury

British tennis player Jack Draper has announced he will not compete for the remainder of the season as he continues his recovery from a persistent arm injury. The 24-year-old, who previously reached a career-high ranking of world number four, is suffering from bone bruising in his serving arm and has only participated in nine tournaments since last year’s Wimbledon.

Draper recently withdrew from the US Open after early exits in the preliminary events in Montreal and Cincinnati. His return to competition was marked by visible emotional distress during a first-round loss to France’s Terence Atmane in Canada.

“I am taking this time to reset and heal so when I return I am 100% ready to go,” Draper stated in a post on Instagram. “Tennis is my purpose and passion and so when I step back on court I want to make sure that there’s nothing holding me back from where I want to go.”

Because his absence will not exceed six months, Draper will not be eligible for a protected ranking upon his return. He currently sits at world number 155, meaning he will likely need wildcards or must navigate qualifying draws to enter Grand Slam and ATP Tour events next season.

Draper’s peak form came last June following a Masters 1000 victory in Indian Wells and a final appearance in Madrid. Reflecting on his journey, he noted that while adversity has helped him grow, the combination of physical pain and constant change has led to significant fatigue.

His technical team is currently investigating the root causes of the injury. Adjustments include switching from polyester to natural gut strings, utilizing a lighter racquet, and modifying his serve technique. Diet is also being reviewed as a potential factor. Andy Murray remains on the coaching staff but will travel selectively, requiring the team to find a permanent assistant coach.

Draper is expected to begin a gradual return to training in the coming weeks, with plans to resume full competition at the start of next year.