Jack Draper gives French Open update after pulling out of Madrid and Rome

Jack Draper is confident of making the French Open despite withdrawing from the upcoming ATP events in Madrid and Rome with a knee injury.

The British number two retired from last Monday’s Barcelona Open first-round clash against Tomas Martin Etcheverry due to an issue in his right knee.

Draper has now confirmed he will miss this week’s Madrid Open along with next month’s Italian Open, but the 2024 US Open semi-finalist is targeting the year’s second grand slam at Roland Garros later in May.

“An aggravated tendon in my knee means I am not able to play in Madrid and Rome,” the 24-year-old said in a statement.

“It’s frustrating for sure but I am thankful it isn’t anything more serious, recovery is going well and I feel good about my chances of being fit for Roland Garros. I am looking forward to building momentum from there.”

Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic have already withdrawn from the ATP event in Madrid, where Draper lost the 2025 final to Casper Ruud.

The Briton has had a tough time since last year’s breakout Indian Wells triumph as he missed nearly eight months due to an issue with his left arm.

Last month’s title defence in California was just the second ATP tournament of Draper’s comeback and saw him impressively beat Djokovic in the last 16, before bowing out to Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, Sonay Kartal announced on Monday she would miss the entire clay court season.

The British number two suffered a back problem at Indian Wells last month during her impressive run to the last 16.

Kartal, who reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year, aims to return to action for the grass court season.

The 24-year-old posted on her Instagram story: “Sadly my back injury hasn’t improved as quickly as I would’ve hoped which means no clay season for me this year.

“Thanks for all the messages over the last few weeks, means a lot. Can’t wait to play in front of a home crowd soon! See you on the grass.”