Draper Optimistic For French Open Despite Madrid, Rome Withdrawals

British number two Jack Draper remains optimistic about his chances of competing at the French Open, despite being forced to withdraw from the upcoming ATP events in Madrid and Rome due to a knee injury.

Draper retired from his Barcelona Open first-round match against Tomas Martin Etcheverry last Monday, citing an issue with his right knee. He has since confirmed he will miss this week’s Madrid Open and next month’s Italian Open. However, the 2024 US Open semi-finalist is aiming for a return at Roland Garros later in May, the year’s second Grand Slam.

The young Brit has endured a challenging period since his breakthrough triumph at Indian Wells last year, which saw him sidelined for almost eight months with a left arm injury. His title defence in California last month marked only his second ATP tournament since returning to action. Draper impressed by defeating Djokovic in the last 16 before his run ended against Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals.

In related news, Sonay Kartal has announced she will miss the entire clay court season. The British women’s number two sustained a back problem at Indian Wells last month during her strong run to the last 16. Kartal, a Wimbledon fourth-round participant last year, is targeting a return for the grass court season.

The 24-year-old shared on her Instagram story: “Sadly my back injury hasn’t improved as quickly as I would’ve hoped which means no clay season for me this year. Thanks for all the messages over the last few weeks, means a lot. Can’t wait to play in front of a home crowd soon! See you on the grass.”