Jack Draper has reached the most outstanding achievement of his career when reaching the semi-finals of the US Open 2024. To become the fourth Englishman to reach the men's singles final, the 22-year-old Draper must beat the current world No. 1 tennis player.
Jannik Sinner will stand in front of the 25th seed when meeting at 02:00 on September 7 (Vietnam time). According to former US Open champion Greg Rusedski, his compatriot has a "real chance" to cause a shock. So, what are the opportunities for Draper?
Strong and smart pass
Before this week, Draper had never passed the fourth round of Grand Slams. During these 2 weeks in New York, he played with confidence and clarity to easily enter the 4th round without losing a set.
Giving is the foundation of Draper's playing style and he has only lost 3 breaks in 5 matches. Draper won 175 of 216 (81%) points when he passed the ball 1, a metric that highlights the importance of this weapon.
" jack has to pass the ball extremely well, that's something he has done well throughout tournaments," said former world No. 4 rusedski.
"Shooting left-handed is a huge advantage because all the important points are at 15-30, 30-40 or the game score is usually on the side you like - giving the ball out to play to expand the left hand and then quickly giving the ball to the right hand."
Use diversity, but be smart
You wouldn't be surprised to learn that Sinner has few weaknesses. The Australian Open champion - who is seeking his second major trophy of the season and career - has a strong, comprehensive style of play.
According to ATP Tour statistics measured over the past 52 weeks, Sinner is currently the seventh best serveer and seventh best returner.
He is considered a top player when playing under pressure - this takes into account the results of break points and the decisive sets.
" jack had to attack his second serve," rusedski said, "He also had to expand on the winning side and prevent Sinner from hitting the left corner and on the left.
Using a little variety and moving forward is also very important.
Draper had to attack in his own way, but that was very difficult to do because Jannik hit the ball very hard.
But he lost sets to [ Daniil] Medvedev and [Mackenzie] McDonald as they tried to move forward, attack and get that combination. The problem is balance.
Appropriate speed
Draper's early professional career was affected by physical problems, but the explosion in New York was the result of becoming stronger this season.
His powerful style of play is also suitable for the hard court at Flushing Meadows. " jack has made great progress in the past few months," rusedski said.
"He has been training a lot about passing and transitioning, and has become much physically stronger.
I think American hard courts are suitable for his playing style because they are fast, fast and soaring. With that combination, it would be ideal for Jack.
But the problem is to be physically able to adapt from start to finish in a five-set game for a quality player like Sinner."
