Draper wins Erste Bank Open, achieving the biggest title of his career and elevating his status in the tennis world.
Draper’s Path to Victory in Vienna
Draper wins Erste Bank Open, achieving the biggest title of his career and elevating his status in the tennis world. The British number one showcased his remarkable talent by defeating Russia’s Karen Khachanov 6-4, 7-5 in the final of the ATP 500 event in Vienna. At just 22 years old, Draper’s performance in the final was a testament to his resilience and skill, particularly as he recovered from a 4-0 lead that Khachanov had managed to overturn.
Reflecting on his victory, Draper expressed pride in his achievement, stating, “To win this title feels incredible. I’m so proud of myself and my team – the hard work is for moments like this.” This victory not only marks his second tour-level title of the year, following his ATP 250 win in Stuttgart, but also propels him to a career-high ranking of 15th in the world.
A Breakout Season for Draper
Draper’s success in Vienna is the highlight of a breakout season that has seen him rise rapidly through the ranks. Earlier this year, Draper reached his maiden Grand Slam semi-final at the US Open, showcasing his potential as a future leader in British men’s tennis. His ability to maintain a high first-serve percentage has been a critical factor in his recent victories, allowing him to dominate opponents and control the pace of matches.
Khachanov, who faced Draper in the final, remarked on the Briton’s impressive start, saying, “I felt I was playing against PlayStation at the beginning – I had no chance.” This acknowledgment underscores Draper’s growing reputation on the ATP tour.
As Draper continues to build on his success, staying fit and robust has been key to his development. With a focus on improving his game and maintaining his health, Draper is poised to achieve even greater heights in the coming seasons.
For more updates on Draper’s journey and other sports stories, visit the BBC. Explore additional sports insights on Eurasia Sports.
