Jack Draper won the biggest title of his career at the Erste Bank Open in Vienna as the British number one’s breakout season reached even greater heights.
Draper produced an outstanding level to beat Russia’s Karen Khachanov 6-4 7-5 in the final of the ATP 500 event.
The 22-year-old left-hander, who reached his maiden Grand Slam semi-final at the US Open last month, will rise to a career-high ranking of 15th in the world on Monday.
“To win this title feels incredible. I’m so proud of myself and my team – the hard work is for moments like this,” said Draper.
The victory was not all plain sailing, however.
Draper watched a 4-0 advantage disappear in the second set as 24th-ranked Khachanov recovered to lead 5-4, but the Briton showed resilience to break again for 6-5 and earn the chance to serve out the victory.
He had to see off two break points in the 12th game, showing his joy and relief by falling to his back on the court when Khachanov put a lob wide on championship point.
It is the second tour-level title of Draper’s career, having won an ATP 250 in Stuttgart earlier this season.
This time last year, Draper sat just inside the top 100 as his comeback from a shoulder injury continued.
Staying fit and becoming more robust has been the key to Draper’s surge, allowing his talent to flourish.
The Brits have landed in Malaga, ready to take on Germany in their opening match at the 2024 Billie Jean King Cup Finals. Here’s all you need to know about th
Emma Raducanu has revealed she plans to leave the UK to spend time in New Zealand around Christmas, having done so in each of the last two years.The Briton has
Emma Raducanu has revealed that she will spend Christmas in New Zealand again as she prepares to play in the ASB Classic. The British star will enter the tourna
There's been no shortage of drama in Italy already this week with Carlos Alcaraz heading into today's clash with Andrey Rublev in desperate need of a win. Defea