Emotional Jack Draper reacts to Grand Slam milestone after US Open win
Jack Draper declared his delight after reaching the second week of a Grand Slam for the primary time on the identical US Open court docket the place he limped out final 12 months.
The British No.5 suffered a hamstring pressure within the Grandstand area 12 months whereas locked in a battle with Russian Karen Khachanov.
The injury-dogged left-hander has since suffered a shoulder tendon tear which dominated him out of the French Open and Wimbledon.
But Draper confirmed he can change into an enormous noise within the recreation by silencing the boisterous residence crowd within the 8,000-seat court docket to beat American wildcard Michael Mmoh 6-4 6-2 3-6 6-3 in simply over three hours.
He then turned to his entourage and stretched out his arms in celebration. “I am incredibly proud of myself,” mentioned Draper, 21. “It has been a tough year. That is what the celebration was for.
“Last year was really difficult. I was in the third round against Khachanov on this court and I injured myself so I didn’t want that to happen again. That is why I am so proud of myself. It was quite a long match and to come through after a tough year for me, I am very happy.
“I am a little bit sore. It has been a long match. To win my first four-set match in a Grand Slam is really positive for me. Hopefully I can carry on. I didn’t think I played that well but it is important to win when you are not playing your best.
“What a place to reach my first Grand Slam fourth round. There is amazing energy here in New York. So many people come out and watch the tennis. I appreciate the support and I look forward to playing the fourth round.”
Starting at 11am native time on one other scorching New York day, Draper took the primary set with a forehand winner after 48 minutes. He confirmed his frustration by tossing his racket within the second set however was nonetheless on the right track for a straight set win after sealing the second set with an ace.