What began as a week of thrilling comebacks ended on a somber note for Jack Draper.

The 23-year-old Brit had to retire mid-match against Carlos Alcaraz in their fourth-round clash at the Australian Open.

Draper, who had already pushed his physical limits with three grueling five-set matches in a row, was unable to continue after losing the first two sets.

Alcaraz Shows Sportsmanship

Carlos Alcaraz, the 21-year-old No. 3 seed, expressed his sympathy for Draper after the match.

“It’s not the way I wanted to advance,” Alcaraz said.

“I feel bad for Jack; he’s a great guy and doesn’t deserve to get injured.”

The Spaniard revealed that the two had planned to train together earlier in the season, adding, “I’m sure he’ll bounce back stronger, as he always does.”

Demonstrating his class, Alcaraz left Draper a heartfelt message on the camera lens before leaving the court: “You will be where you deserve. Get well soon, Jack!”

A Tough Start to the Match

The first set was competitive, but more because of Alcaraz’s inconsistencies than Draper’s offense.

Alcaraz’s style is unique—he’s prone to unforced errors but can deliver astonishing winners from seemingly impossible positions.

Draper, however, struggled to assert himself and often appeared as a bystander to Alcaraz’s dynamic play.

Despite some promising moments, Draper’s game was hampered by visible discomfort.

By the second game, he was already shaking out his left leg, signaling trouble.

As the set wore on, it was clear his timing, particularly on his forehand, was off.

Some shots went wildly off-target, landing deep into the stands.

Alcaraz Seizes Control

The opening set was messy, with break points exchanged on both sides.

Alcaraz eventually served for the set at 5-3, but a series of errors, including double faults and a mistimed slice, handed Draper an unexpected break.

Just when it seemed Draper might snatch the set, his forehand let him down again while serving to stay in the set at 5-6.

Alcaraz capitalized, threading a forehand winner to close it out.

Draper’s Physical Struggles Take Over

After losing the first set, Draper left the court for a medical timeout, likely addressing issues with his hip—an area that had troubled him during pre-season.

Having already played three marathon matches in a row, his body seemed to be at its limit.

The second set highlighted the stark contrast between the two players.

Draper’s movement was labored, and at times, he didn’t even attempt to recover after being pulled wide.

Alcaraz, on the other hand, showcased his incredible athleticism with shots like a pinpoint backhand winner off a well-placed dropshot.

A Graceful Exit

By the end of the second set, Draper’s condition had worsened, and he walked to his chair instead of preparing for the next game.

Alcaraz, half-expecting Draper’s retirement, waited near the net. After a brief pause—perhaps influenced by a signal from his team—Draper officially conceded the match.

Though the match ended on a somber note, Alcaraz’s sportsmanship and Draper’s resilience were on full display.

Fans will undoubtedly be rooting for Draper’s recovery and hoping to see him return to the court stronger in the future.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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