Jack Draper recalls early matches against Jannik Sinner - "He was probably not one of the best juniors"

The quarterfinals of the 2024 US Open are set, with both Jack Draper and Jannik Sinner earning their spots in the final eight. With a potential matchup between both men in the making, the British star spoke on his early encounters with the Italian on the junior circuit.

Draper defeated Tomas Machac in straight sets to reach the quarterfinals, while Sinner overcame American Tommy Paul to advance to the last eight. This will be Draper's first appearance in the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam, whereas Sinner won his maiden Major title at the Australian Open earlier this year.

Following his victory over Machac, Draper shed some light on how far he and Sinner have come since their days on the junior circuit. The 22-year old Brit recalled Sinner not being very intimidating on court, adding the Italian was often targeted when playing doubles. However, he acknowledged Sinner's recent success, including his ascension to the World No.1 position.

"The first time I met Jannik Sinner was, we were an Under-18 tournament," said Draper. "I think I played him in the doubles... I didn't know him but it was strange, you know, following his journey because when he was younger he was probably not one of the best juniors. I remember playing him in doubles and we were saying 'oh hit to him', you know because he's not the best player on the court,
"Obviously watching his progress... really getting to the top-20 very quickly when when all of us were kind of No. 300, No. 400 in the world. I've obviously followed him and always think he's, he's really well-mannered and an amazing, amazing guy and good for the sport."