Inspired Jack Draper overpowers Lorenzo Musetti to reach Madrid Open final

Jack Draper returns to a Masters 1000 final after defeating Lorenzo Musetti in the Madrid Open semifinals 6-3, 7-6(4). The British No. 1 will seek his second title in the category – after being crowned champion in Indian Wells – against the experienced Casper Ruud.

It was a good showing from the Italian, who kept fighting point by point until the end, but was ultimately overwhelmed by Draper's power. Musetti showed more variety in terms of dropshots, slices, and varying heights, but nothing was effective enough against the inspired world No. 6.

The beginning was quickly favorable to Draper, who saved a break point early on and then secured a break that put him ahead quickly 2-0. The most irregular moments of the match began, after several unforced errors from both sides that ended with consecutive breaks. Only with the score at 4-1 in favor of Draper did Musetti manage to hold his serve for the first time. However, he was unable to create break opportunities again.

From the return, the Italian tried to go for winners with risky shots, which resulted in a couple of unforced errors. Despite an intense final game, Draper held his serve and took the set 6-3. The Brit prevailed mainly with his first serve, winning 74% of those points compared to Musetti's 58%. Both had the same percentage (30%) of points won on their second serve.

It already seemed like the Italian was finding his rhythm on serve and started winning his games without too many problems. In any case, he had to save a break point against him in the third game, but it was a minor scare. Both players improved in consistency on serve, although this time it was the Italian who was winning his games more easily and seemed increasingly close to a break.

Without major developments, Musetti wasted a break point in his favor at 4-3, and the uncertainty remained in the Caja Mágica (Magic Box - the stadium). The duel extended to a tie-break without either player achieving new opportunities. When the score was 2-2 in the tie-break, the key point arrived, in which Musetti missed a passing shot by a hair's breadth, which ended up demoralizing the Italian. The always focused Draper then held his serve to close out the victory 6-3, 7-6(4).

This will be Draper's second appearance in a Masters 1000 final. The day before, he had already secured his first-time appearance in the top 5 once the tournament concludes. In search of his second title of the season, he will face Norwegian Casper Ruud, who comes from defeating Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets.