Jack Draper Vomits on Court but Triumphs in Tough First Match

Jack Draper faced a challenging start to his return to competitive tennis at the US Open, battling through physical and mental hurdles to secure a hard-fought victory over qualifier Federico Gomez. The match, which spanned four sets, highlighted both Draper’s resilience and the lingering effects of his recent injury layoff.

Draper, who had previously vomited on court during a semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner in 2024, attributed his recent illness to a "poor gut" rather than the high humidity that had affected him the previous year. This time, he felt physically fine despite the warm 29°C conditions. However, the match itself was far from straightforward, with Draper showing signs of rust after a seven-week break due to a bone bruise on his left humerus.

The Briton, known for his powerful serve and aggressive play, struggled with his first-serve speed, which dipped to as low as 106mph. He admitted he wasn’t serving "full out" to avoid pain, but he maintained that his accuracy had improved. The injury, which kept him off the court for a month and a half, required careful rehabilitation, and Draper acknowledged that the process included both good and bad days.

Gomez, a player ranked just outside the top 200, proved to be a tough opponent, unleashing a remarkable 50 winners throughout the match. His powerful forehand and 130mph serve posed a significant threat, especially in the early stages of the game. Despite this, Draper managed to adapt, showcasing improved movement and strategic shot selection, including clever drop-shots in the fourth set.

Throughout the match, Draper’s performance evolved. While he started with some uncharacteristic errors, he gradually found his rhythm and began to dominate key points. The third set was particularly intense, with Gomez pushing Draper to a tie-break before ultimately losing the set. Draper, however, remained focused, using the challenge as a test to gauge his readiness for the tournament.

In an interview after the match, Draper expressed relief at being back on court, stating that he needed the experience of a three-hour match to regain his competitive edge. He also emphasized that he wasn’t placing too much pressure on himself, focusing instead on the work he had done to return to form.

Draper’s new sponsorship deal with Vouri and his decision to wear a sleeveless shirt were notable changes, but the most significant adjustment was the black compression sleeve on his injured arm. While it was a precautionary measure, it underscored the importance of managing his recovery carefully.

Despite the challenges, Draper’s determination shone through. He credited Gomez for a strong performance and acknowledged the value of the match in helping him build confidence for the upcoming rounds. The victory, while not a dominant one, marked a crucial step in his return to competition.

As the tournament progresses, the focus will remain on how Draper’s injured arm responds and whether he can maintain the momentum gained from this first-round win. For now, the British player has taken a positive step forward, proving that even after a long break, his competitive spirit remains intact.