Jack Draper’s surprise Canadian Open return confirmed days after DC Open withdrawal

Thursday, 30 July 2026 at 08:30

Jack Draper will return to competition sooner than expected after receiving a wildcard into the main draw of the 2026 Canadian Open in Montreal, just days after withdrawing from the DC Open due to a recurrence of his left arm injury.

The former world No. 4 was forced to pull out of the ATP 500 event in Washington shortly before his opening match, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming North American hard-court swing. However, his wildcard announcement suggests the withdrawal was more precautionary than a major setback, opening the possibility of an immediate return at one of the biggest tournaments of the season.

Draper headlines the final group of main draw wildcards announced by Tennis Canada, joining Canadian players Alexis Galarneau and Liam Draxl, winner of the 2026 Road to the NBO competition. The Briton will now have the opportunity to compete at a Masters 1000 event that arrives with an unusually open field.

The Canadian Open will be missing the three biggest names in men’s tennis, with Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic all withdrawing from the tournament. Their absence creates one of the most unpredictable Masters 1000 draws of the season, giving players like Draper a major opportunity to make a deep run and collect valuable ranking points.

Draper looks for another strong Montreal run after Indian Wells breakthrough

Draper’s return to Montreal represents an important opportunity for a player who has already shown he can compete at the highest level on hard courts.

The Briton has fond memories of the Canadian Open, having reached the quarterfinals in 2022 before losing to eventual champion Pablo Carreño Busta. This year’s edition will mark his third appearance at the tournament and his second time competing at IGA Stadium.

“I’m really excited to be playing in Montreal,” Draper said. “It’s a tournament I’ve enjoyed, and I have great memories of reaching the quarterfinals here a few years ago. I’m looking forward to getting back on court and competing in front of the Canadian fans again.”

Jack Draper will play his first tournament since the Eastburne International a month ago. The Briton withdrew from Wimbledon and the Washington Open due to injury, but should be ready for the Canadian Open.

His wildcard comes at a crucial moment after a season interrupted by physical setbacks. Draper began 2026 outside competition for several months before returning at Eastbourne in June, but another arm issue forced him to carefully manage his schedule during the grass-court swing.

Despite those challenges, his potential remains clear. Draper reached world No. 4 in 2025 after winning his maiden Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells, proving he has the level to challenge the best players when healthy.

With Sinner, Alcaraz and Djokovic absent, Montreal offers a rare opening for players outside the usual group of favorites. Draper, who enters the tournament ranked No. 147 after a limited schedule, could immediately benefit from the opportunity if he can find his best tennis.

Canadian Open wildcards include Nishikori and local players

Alongside Draper, Tennis Canada also announced several other wildcard recipients for the 2026 Canadian Open.

Former world No. 4 Kei Nishikori received a qualifying wildcard through a reciprocal agreement, while Canadians Duncan Chan, Keegan Rice and Justin Boulais will also compete in qualifying.

Draper joins Gaël Monfils, who had already been announced among the tournament’s wildcard selections, as one of the most experienced players receiving direct entry into the Montreal draw. The French veteran and the British former Indian Wells champion add additional star power to an event already expected to feature plenty of opportunities for surprise runs.

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For Draper, however, the focus will be on proving he is ready to compete again. After falling to world No. 147 due to his limited schedule, the Canadian Open provides an immediate chance to restart his season and begin climbing back toward the elite.

The level has never been the question for Draper. The biggest challenge will be remaining healthy enough to show it consistently.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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