Jack Draper is set to spearhead Britain’s Davis Cup squad this weekend as they take on Norway in Oslo in a pivotal first-round qualifying match. The 21-year-old, who has seen his ranking slip to 13 after peaking at 4 last June, has been recovering from a significant bone injury in his left arm, which sidelined him since the US Open last year.
Opting out of the Australian circuit to ensure a full recovery, Draper’s participation in this tie marks a notable comeback following a five-month absence from competitive tennis. In his own words, Draper expressed his eagerness to return, stating, “It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to compete. I’ve stayed in a good place, although it’s been tricky with a lot of dark moments and tough times, but that’s the sport I signed up for.”
Draper further conveyed his excitement about the atmosphere of competition, saying, “I miss the buzz of competing… and that winning feeling you can’t replicate in training.” This Davis Cup tie represents a significant moment for the young athlete, as he seeks to regain his form and confidence on the court.
Britain boasts a rich history in the Davis Cup, having clinched the title in 2015 under the leadership of Andy Murray. This year’s objective is clear: to qualify for the Davis Cup Finalslater this season. Draper will be joined by fellow competitors Cameron Norrie, Jacob Fearnley, and the seasoned doubles pair of Wimbledon champions Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash.
Facing them will be a Norwegian squad missing their top-ranked player, Casper Ruud, currently on paternity leave after the birth of his daughter on January 30. In Ruud’s absence, 19-year-old Nicolai Budkov Kjaer, who previously held the junior world number one title, will step in for the host nation.
Norrie is expected to face Viktor Durasovic, who is ranked 329 in the world, in the second singles match. Given the ranking disparity, Team GB heads into this competition as the heavier favorites, though Draper cautioned against underestimating the opposition. He noted Kjaer’s potential, acknowledging him as “a young guy who’s got a lot to prove,” adding, “It’s going to be a great challenge for us all.”
The stakes are high, as the victor will advance to a second-round qualifier against either Australia or Ecuador, with a direct path to the Davis Cup Finals in Italy at stake. Reflecting on his journey back to the courts, Draper acknowledged the challenges he faced last season, sharing that the early successes fueled his determination to return to the top tier of the sport.
“I’ve been out for such a long time, but I’m constantly getting better and improving,” Draper remarked, revealing his optimism about showcasing his skills once again. His return is highly anticipated, not only for his potential contributions to the team but also for the resilience he embodies as a player striving to overcome past setbacks.
