British tennis player Jack Draper has highlighted the severity of his hip injury, which forced him to retire from his fourth-round match against Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open. Despite reaching the second week for the first time in his career, Draper acknowledged that his body had reached its limit. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing recovery to prevent long-term damage and ensure a sustainable career. While frustrated by the setback, Draper expressed pride in his competitive spirit and determination during the tournament.

The 21-year-old athlete revealed that he had been managing tendinitis in his hip, an issue that has persisted since the preseason. This condition significantly impacted his performance and mobility. Draper explained that despite the challenges, he was surprised by how much he could push his body, playing through pain and managing the injury throughout the tournament. The intense physical demands of consecutive five-set matches ultimately took their toll on his hip, leading to his retirement during the match against Alcaraz.

Draper stressed the importance of load management in preventing injuries. He noted that overloading the body with excessive training or competition can lead to breakdowns. In his case, the sudden increase in activity during the tournament exacerbated his existing hip issues. Draper is now focusing on rehabilitation and may consider treatments like injections to address the problem. He understands that making the right decisions now will be crucial to avoiding prolonged absences from the sport.

Reflecting on his journey at the Australian Open, Draper praised his mental resilience and competitive drive. Although his tennis performance was not at its best, it was his fighting spirit that carried him into the last 16 of a Grand Slam for the first time. Draper’s ability to adapt and persevere despite physical limitations underscores his potential as a top player. Moving forward, he aims to balance recovery with gradual increases in training intensity to ensure long-term health and consistency on the court.

Draper is currently scheduled to compete in the Rotterdam Open in early February, but his participation remains uncertain due to the ongoing treatment of his hip injury. His focus now shifts to ensuring a full recovery before returning to competitive play, emphasizing the need for careful management of his physical well-being.