Jack Draper Aims to Avoid Underperformance at French Open

According to Sky Sports Tennis analyst Laura Robson, Jack Draper should avoid competing in the French Open without adequate preparation. Draper, the British No 2, recently withdrew from upcoming ATP events in Madrid and Rome due to a knee injury. He retired from his first-round match at the Barcelona Open against Tomas Martin Etcheverry last Monday. Although Draper will miss the Madrid Open and the Internazionali BNL d'Italia, he is targeting the French Open, the year's second Grand Slam, in May. Robson believes it's positive news for Draper, who previously struggled with an elbow issue that kept him out for most of the 2025 season. Draper's title defence in Indian Wells last month was only his second ATP tournament since his comeback, where he impressively defeated Novak Djokovic before losing to Daniil Medvedev. Robson stated that Draper took the time to ensure his elbow was 100% healed, but unfortunately, he now faces a knee issue. The good news is that it's just a tendon problem. Draper is expected to participate in events in Hamburg or Geneva, the week before the French Open, to get some much-needed practice. Fellow Brit Emma Raducanu also withdrew from the Madrid Open as she continues to recover from post-viral symptoms. Raducanu, the British No 1, pulled out of WTA Tour events in Miami and Linz, prioritizing her rehabilitation. She is back in training and hopes to play in Rome in May. Raducanu last played in the third round at Indian Wells on March 8, where she lost to Amanda Anisimova. Robson said that Raducanu is still struggling with the effects of the viral illness and is taking time off to focus on her recovery. Raducanu reunited with coach Mark Petchey on an ad-hoc basis and is working with hitting partner Alexis Canter. Robson emphasized that Raducanu's current coaching situation is not a concern, as her priority is to regain her health and fitness.