Holger Rune’s recent Achilles rupture has reignited debate around the physical toll of the ATP calendar, with fellow rising star Jack Draper voicing concern over the demands placed on players. Draper, who ended his own season early due to a bruised humerus, shared a pointed message on social media that many interpreted as a critique of the tour’s scheduling.
“Injuries are going to happen… we are pushing our bodies to do things they aren’t supposed to in elite sport,” Draper wrote. “We have so many incredible younger guys on the tour right now and I’m proud to be apart of that, however, the tour and the calendar have to adapt if any of us are gonna achieve some sort of longevity…”
A season cut short despite career-best form
Draper’s frustration stems from a season that saw him reach a career-high ATP ranking of No. 4 and win his first Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells. Yet despite his breakout year, the British No. 1 was forced to withdraw from the US Open and miss the remainder of the 2025 season due to his arm injury. The injury, sustained during Wimbledon and aggravated through the summer, became too severe to ignore.
“It is very difficult for me to accept as I was building some incredible momentum this year and playing some great stuff,” Draper said in his official statement.
A broader issue for the next generation
Draper’s comments reflect a growing unease among younger players who are emerging as top contenders but struggling to stay fit. Rune’s Achilles injury is just the latest in a string of setbacks affecting the tour’s rising stars. Draper’s call for calendar reform suggests that without structural changes, longevity may remain elusive for this new wave of talent.
Leading sports science experts have echoed Draper’s concerns. Stephen Smith, CEO of Kitman Labs, warned that Draper’s career could be “cut short” unless changes are made to better manage athlete workload.
Pressure on the ATP to respond
As injuries mount and players speak out, pressure is building on the ATP to reassess its scheduling model. Draper’s message is not just personal—it’s emblematic of a broader challenge facing the sport. With the physical demands of elite tennis intensifying, the governing bodies may need to act swiftly to protect the future of their stars.
ATP Basel - Holger Rune's projected path
Holger Rune in 2025
Ranked world no.11, the Dane played his last match on the 18th of October when he had to retire when playing against world no.25 Ugo Humbert in the semifinal and the scoreline was 4-6 2-2 .
At the moment, during this season the Dane achieved an overall 36-22 match record. This year, the Dane conquered 1 title in Barcelona. Rune was the finalist in Indian Wells.
Jack Draper in 2025
At the moment ranked no.9, Jack played his last match on the 25th of August when he overcame world no.203 Federico Agustin Gomez 6-4 7-5 6-7(7) 6-2 in the 1st round of the U.S. Open (draw).
At the moment, during this season Jack has managed to achieve a 30-9 match record. This year, Jack conquered 1 title in Indian Wells. Jack was the runner-up in Doha and Madrid.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). The main draw will start on the 27th of October.
Holger Rune and Jack Draper faced off just 2 times. Their actual head to head record is 1-1.