Draper’s Impressive Comeback
British No. 1 Jack Draper made a winning comeback on his Doha debut, defeating Alexei Popyrin in straight sets. This victory allows Draper to move confidently into the second round of the Qatar Open. Having faced challenges in recent months, including a retirement from his match against Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open, this success marks a significant return to form for the 23-year-old.
Overcoming Fitness Challenges
Draper had been recovering from a troubling hip issue which hindered his performance leading up to the Australian Open. His ability to perform well against Popyrin indicates that he is back in decent shape. The first set was a clear demonstration of his potential, as Draper broke the big-serving Australian on two occasions, closing out the set in just 27 minutes. This efficient play set the tone for the match.
A Tight Second Set
The second set proved to be a more challenging affair. Draper displayed resilience, particularly when he had to save a set point while down 5-6. His composure in the tie-break was commendable, and he ultimately sealed the match with a pair of powerful aces, winning 6-2, 7-6 (4). This performance bodes well for Draper’s prospects in the tournament and suggests he is regaining his competitive edge.
