Key Takeaways
- Jack Draper was seen practicing on clay at Country Club Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Injuries limited Draper to 15 matches and an 8-7 record in 2026, causing his ranking to drop outside the top 150 before he shut down his year on Sept. 15.
- Andy Murray plans to be available to work with Draper in 2027 after physical issues derailed their planned partnership late in the season.
British star resumes practice in South America after injury-shortened campaign
Jack Draper has made a surprising appearance on the practice courts in South America following an injury-plagued season. The British player was seen hitting on clay at Country Club Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as he takes steps toward his physical recovery.
The location and surface choice raised eyebrows among tennis followers, who wondered why the Briton selected a South American clay venue instead of training closer to home. However, the slower clay surface is notably gentler on the joints, which could serve as a deliberate method for Draper to build form without placing excessive stress on his body.
Struggles and ranking drop in 2026
Draper has contended with repeated physical setbacks in recent years. In 2026, he managed to compete in only 15 matches, recording an 8-7 match record before deciding to halt his campaign entirely on Sept. 15 due to the persistent toll of the injury and rehabilitation cycle.
As a consequence of his extended absence from the tour, the former world number 4 and Indian Wells champion has plummeted outside the ATP top 150. While Brazilian standout Joao Fonseca was not present during the session in Rio, Draper’s return to the court marks a positive development for supporters hoping to see him fit for 2027.
Prospective partnership with Andy Murray
Draper had previously planned to collaborate with former British world number 1 Andy Murray during the later stretch of the year. Physical problems ultimately prevented the partnership from developing as intended during the season.
Murray has confirmed his willingness to work with Draper in 2027, although the precise schedule for Draper’s competitive return has yet to be finalized.
Jack Draper in 2026
Currently ranked no.157, Jack played his last match on the 13th of August when he lost to world no.67 Martin Landaluce 6-3 7-5 in the 1st round in Cincinnati (draw).
This season Jack owns a 8-7 match record.
