Jack Draper’s quest for victory at Queen’s came to an end in a tightly contested semi-final against Jiri Lehecka. The 23-year-old British player, who battled tonsillitis, lost the match 6-4, 4-6, 7-5, reflecting both his determination and resilience. Despite feeling unwell leading up to the match, Draper was committed to pursuing his dream of reaching the final at this prestigious event on home soil.
After dropping the first set, Draper showcased his fighting spirit by winning the second. The match remained intense in the third set, with both players exchanging powerful shots. However, pivotal moments emerged when Lehecka secured a critical break at 5-5, forcing Draper to express his frustration by slamming his racquet against the advertising boards, knowing it could jeopardize his chances.
Lehecka’s victory earned him a spot in the final, where he will square off against top seed Carlos Alcaraz, who triumphed over Roberto Bautista Agut in the other semi-final. This marks Lehecka’s fifth appearance in an ATP Tour final, highlighting his rising status in the tennis world. Meanwhile, Draper is now set to take a brief respite as he gears up for Wimbledon, commencing on June 30.
In his post-match remarks, Draper noted, “Today’s probably the worst I have felt. Did I think about withdrawing? No, not at all. I wouldn’t have pulled out for anything.” His unwavering passion for the sport and his ambitious spirit are commendable, signaling a promising future ahead for the young athlete.
Despite this setback, Draper’s commitment and tenacity serve as an inspiration, and with the right recovery, there is hope for a strong performance at Wimbledon.