Jack Draper, Britain’s leading men’s tennis player, has candidly addressed the significant backlash he received following a controversial incident during his fourth-round match at the Cincinnati Open against Félix Auger-Aliassime. Draper, who was awarded the match point in question, has shared his frustration and disappointment over the criticism and has called for the adoption of video replay technology in tennis.
Controversial Match Point: The Incident That Sparked Backlash
The controversy unfolded when Draper, attempting to close out the match with a serve and volley, inadvertently hit the ball into the ground. The ball then bounced up and trickled over the net, resulting in Draper being awarded the point. The umpire, Greg Allensworth, failed to notice the double bounce, and despite Auger-Aliassime’s protests, the point stood. Draper, who was unsure of what had happened at the moment, had suggested replaying the point if video evidence were available.
Draper expressed his deep hurt over the situation, emphasizing that being perceived as dishonest is particularly painful for him. “I’ve always prided myself on being honest and a good person,” Draper said. “Seeing people question my integrity and talk about me negatively for the first time is really difficult.” He acknowledged that the slow-motion replays clearly showed the mistake, but emphasized that in the heat of the moment, he was not fully aware of what had occurred.
Draper’s Call for Video Replay and Response to Criticism
The British player praised Auger-Aliassime for his professionalism, both during the match and afterward. “Auger-Aliassime handled it with class,” Draper noted. “If I were in his position, I’m not sure how I would have reacted.” Draper’s comments reflect his respect for his opponent’s composure and highlight the importance of fair play in the sport.
The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the need for video replay technology in tennis. Draper hopes that this situation will prompt the sport to adopt such technology to ensure fairness and accuracy. While the US Open has allowed players to request video replays since last year, the technology is not yet widely used on the tour. Draper’s advocacy for video replay underscores his commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game.
Beyond the controversy, Draper’s performance at the Cincinnati Open was noteworthy, as he reached the quarter-finals and defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas. This achievement has earned him a seeded position at the upcoming US Open, where he will face China’s Zhang Zhizhen in the first round. Draper’s preparation for the tournament includes a significant change in his coaching team; he has parted ways with Wayne Ferreira and will now work more closely with his longtime coach, James Trotman.
Draper’s experience with criticism and his push for technological advancements in tennis reflect his dedication to the sport and his resilience as an athlete. As he heads into the US Open, Draper remains focused on his goals and committed to improving both his game and the integrity of the sport.
