British No 1 Jack Draper has withdrawn from the US Open due to an arm injury, forcing him out before his scheduled second-round match against Zizou Bergs on Thursday. The Belgian will advance via walkover after Draper's withdrawal.
The world No 5 had been struggling with bone bruising in his left humerus and had not played a competitive match for more than seven weeks before the tournament. Only GBNews reports that doctors had recommended eight weeks of recovery time, indicating Draper pushed the timeline significantly to compete at Flushing Meadows.
Draper's withdrawal statement
Draper posted on social media: "I'm sorry to say I'll be withdrawing from the US Open. I tried my very best to be here and give myself the every chance to play but the discomfort in my arm has become to much and I have to do what is right and look after myself. Thank you for all the support."
The 23-year-old left-hander had beaten Federico Agustin Gomez in four sets in the first round on Tuesday. GBNews noted heavy strapping was visible on his left arm during that match.
Breakthrough season interrupted
Draper arrived at the US Open following a breakthrough 2025 season that saw him win Indian Wells and climb to world No 5 in the rankings. Hopes were high he could build on last year's semi-final run at Flushing Meadows, where he was eventually beaten by Jannik Sinner.
The withdrawal continues a disappointing year for Draper in tennis's biggest events. He suffered a shock second-round exit to Marin Cilic at Wimbledon and could not progress beyond the fourth round at the Australian or French Opens.
Tournament implications
Bergs will face either Gabriel Diallo or Jaume Munar for a place in the third round. Draper's withdrawal potentially opens up a path for 10th seed Lorenzo Musetti to continue his strong year with a run to the quarter-finals.
Draper will now focus on recovery ahead of the season-ending swing, including the ATP Finals in Turin in November, for which the British No 1 is currently slated to qualify.
Sources used: "The Independent", "GBNews", "BBC" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
