British No 1 Jack Draper was compelled to withdraw from the Japan Open quarter-final against Ugo Humbert due to an abdominal injury. The match saw Draper losing the first set and struggling in the second before his retirement.
- Jack Draper retired during the second set of the Japan Open quarter-final against Ugo Humbert.
- Draper received treatment for an abdominal complaint but could not continue.
- Ugo Humbert will now progress to face Tomas Machac in the semi-final.
- The match’s start was delayed by rain, and Draper, who had previously been injury-free in 2024, now faces another setback.
Jack Draper retired injured during Sunday’s Japan Open quarter-final against France’s Ugo Humbert. The British No 1, who has been enjoying an injury-free run in 2024, faced an abdominal complaint that led to his withdrawal.
During the first set, which Draper lost 7-5, he called for medical treatment. Despite attempts to continue, his movement was clearly restricted, and at 2-1 down in the second set, he could no longer proceed. This development marked an abrupt end to his run in Tokyo.
The match between Draper and Humbert had a delayed start due to rain, necessitating the closure of the court roof. Both players were broken twice in the initial nine games before Draper sought treatment. Draper managed to serve to stay in the first set but ultimately lost his next service game with Humbert capitalising on a cross-court forehand.
Draper’s withdrawal positions Humbert to now face Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic for a place in the Japan Open final. Notably, Draper had defeated Machac at the US Open earlier this month.
Before arriving in Japan, Draper experienced two losses during the Davis Cup for Great Britain but showed promising performance by defeating Mattia Bellucci and Hubert Hurkacz in Tokyo. Despite his injury, Draper’s performance earlier in the tournament had been commendable, showcasing his potential in the sport.
Draper’s withdrawal from the Japan Open due to an abdominal injury highlights the physical challenges athletes face, bringing an untimely end to his promising run.
