Jack Draper has been ruled out of the French Open with a knee injury, marking another dispiriting setback for British tennis. The 24-year-old, who was ranked in the world’s top four less than a year ago, has managed only nine matches in five events since returning from a long-term arm injury in February.
Injury Details
Draper retired during his first-round match against Tomás Martín Etcheverry at the Barcelona Open this month after being diagnosed with an aggravated knee tendon injury. He initially hoped to recover in time for the second grand slam of the year, but has decided not to risk playing best-of-five-set tennis on clay.
Focus on Grass-Court Season
Writing on Instagram, Draper said: “My knee is on the mend and I’ve started back hitting balls but unfortunately I have been advised not to play Roland Garros. As gutting as it is to miss another slam, the advice is not to rush straight back into playing five-set tennis on clay.” He added that giving himself time to heal will allow him to become the player he wants to be.
Impact on British Tennis
Draper joins Carlos Alcaraz in missing Roland Garros and is almost certain to fall outside the top 100 upon his return. His absence continues a disappointing season for leading Britons, with Emma Raducanu sidelined by post-viral symptoms and Sonay Kartal ruled out with a back injury. Cameron Norrie and Katie Boulter are the only Britons in the Madrid Open singles draw.
The French Open main draw begins on 24 May, with finals on 6 and 7 June.
