Jack Draper reveals bizarre ritual at Grand Slams behind US Open success

Thursday, 05 September 2024 at 16:00

Jack Draper is through to a tie against Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals of the 2024 US Open and he has opened up on a special ritual he has gone through at different Grand Slams to get him prepared.

Draper spoke to Sky Sports after the 25th seed took down Alex de Minaur 6-3, 7-5, 6-2 to book a clash with the World No.1 and he admitted that he still hadn't got over winning the match yet in his head.

"Yeah, it feels unbelievable. I maybe haven't quite sort of put it in my mind yet. I’m still focused on the next match. That’s the way tennis works, you’ve got to keep on going," he told Sky Sports.

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"It feels amazing obviously to be in this position playing my first match on the biggest court in the world was an incredible thing for me and obviously coming through against Alex was huge as well. So just really proud of myself and happy for my team and everyone me."

"It felt good. It helps having played on Wimbledon Centre Court and having played in a lot of challenging environments for the first time.

Whilst every day he has been getting used to Arthur Ashe with an unorthodox route in order to get himself prepared whether he plays there or not.

"Every morning it's been a ritual of mine, cause I've practiced so early, to take a look around Centre Court when it's been empty and taken a look up. The last few days I've been going out there not knowing I'm going to play on it but just taking a look. Because it's one of the most iconic stages in the sport. I think that helped me get used to it today."

"I felt again like my level today was solid and there was some glimpses of some really good stuff. But also it's hard - first match on Ashe." he continued.

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Jack Draper is the first player to go 14-0 in sets in the US Open main draw since… …well… 😏🇬🇧

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