Jack Draper says he has had to overcome “a lot of dark moments” during his injury layoff as he prepares for his long-awaited return in England’s Davis Cup qualifiers against Norway in Oslo.
The 24-year-old’s 2025 season was interrupted by a left upper arm injury that first broke out during the clay-court season in the spring. He has played just one singles match since exiting in the second round at Wimbledon.
British number one Draper previously enjoyed a breakthrough season, reaching the fourth round at the Australian Open and Roland Garros, winning his first Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells and climbing to a career-high ranking of fourth in June.
Although he attempted a comeback at the U.S. Open, partnering Jessica Pegula in the mixed doubles and winning the first-round singles match, he later withdrew from the tournament due to injury.
He subsequently withdrew from December’s Ultimate Tennis Showdown and did not travel to Melbourne for the Australian Open.
“[It’s] I haven’t competed in a long time. I live in a good place even though it’s tricky [with] There were a lot of dark moments and a lot of tough moments, but this is the sport I signed up for,” Draper told the Land Transport Authority website.
“I’m excited to be back playing again. I miss the excitement of the game. I miss the excitement of being in front of people, playing against great players, and that feeling of winning that you can’t replicate in training.
“It’s going to be great to be back out there again.”
