Full Breakdown
Jack Draper Withdraws from DC Open as Arm Injury Threatens US Open Bid
7/28/2026, 3:30:52 PM
Withdrawal from the Mubadala DC Open
Former British No. 1 Jack Draper announced his withdrawal from the ATP 500 event in Washington, the Mubadala DC Open, citing a lingering left-arm injury. The decision came a day after he told reporters he felt “physically good.” The 24-year-old, coached by former world No. 1 Andy Murray, pulled out on Monday after experiencing renewed soreness in the serving arm that has troubled him for more than a year.
Injury History and Ranking Consequences
Draper’s arm problem first forced him off the tour in 2025 and has since been compounded by knee and shoulder issues. The injury-strewn 2026 season saw him miss the Australian Open, the French Open and Wimbledon. As a result, his ATP ranking has fallen to world No. 147, meaning he will likely have to compete in the US Open qualifying tournament rather than receive direct entry into the main draw.
Draper’s Own Comments
In a press conference, Draper described the past year as “incredibly challenging,” noting the need for “problem solving” and “pain” while working toward recovery. On Instagram, he wrote that the recent months have been “nothing but adversity and setbacks,” emphasizing the difficulty of staying patient with his rehabilitation process.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I've had an incredibly challenging 12 months, a lot of adversity, a lot of problem solving, a lot of pain, and trying to understand that and come through it,” — Jack Draper
- “These last months have felt like nothing but adversity and setbacks,” — Jack Draper
Implications for the US Open
With the DC Open withdrawal, Draper’s chances of appearing in the US Open main draw are uncertain. His low ranking and recent injury history suggest he will need to navigate the qualifying rounds in late August, a hurdle that could further test his comeback after a year of missed Grand Slam participation.
