Key Takeaways
- Jack Draper has returned to the practice court in Rio de Janeiro following an extended injury break that dropped him outside the top 150.
- The 24-year-old is training at the home club of Brazilian prospect Joao Fonseca, who is also recovering from physical setbacks.
- Draper’s decision to train on red clay is considered an unusual step given that the upcoming tour calendar focuses on hard courts.
British star ramps up recovery in Rio de Janeiro
Jack Draper has taken an encouraging step forward in his recovery by getting back onto the tennis court in Brazil. After an extended absence from the ATP Tour caused by persistent physical issues, the 24-year-old was spotted training in Rio de Janeiro.
Draper has seen his ranking drop outside the world’s top 150 during his prolonged sideline spell. Because his specific injury required absolute rest, returning to competitive shape has been a patient process. Recent photos and videos show the British left-hander hitting again, signaling that he and his team have moved into the next phase of his rehabilitation program.
Shared grounds and an unconventional surface choice
The training location holds particular significance, as Draper is practicing at the home country club of rising Brazilian talent Joao Fonseca. Fonseca has also cut his campaign short due to physical setbacks and was seen at the venue as he prepares for the upcoming tour calendar.
One report detailed that the local favorite wants to “build up his tolerance to high temperatures” as part of his preparation.
Draper’s choice of surface has caught observers by surprise. While spending time in a warm climate offers clear conditioning advantages, opting to train on red clay remains an unexpected decision. With the Australian hard-court swing and the Australian Open representing the next major goals on the horizon, clay-court competition does not return until the Golden Swing in February or the broader European swing in April.
Jack Draper in 2026
Now the world no.157, the Brit 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).
During this season Draper achieved a compiled 8-7 record.
