In a thrilling Qatar Open semi-final, British tennis player Jack Draper delivered a stirring comeback to defeat Jiri Lehecka, clinching a spot in his first final of the season. Draper, the country's top-ranked player, displayed tenacity and skill to overturn a first set deficit, ultimately triumphing with a scoreline of 3-6, 7-6(2), 6-3.
The semi-final encounter was Draper's second success against Lehecka, ranked world No. 25, across their three thrilling duels. Initially, Draper fell behind after losing the first set. However, he displayed remarkable resilience as he stormed back in the second set tie-break, securing five consecutive points from a tense 2-2 stage, demonstrating his unyielding spirit and cool under pressure. Draper’s fortunes were sealed in the third set when a double fault from Lehecka at 3-3 cracked open the opportunity for Draper to break, granting him the upper hand to serve out the match.
Looking Ahead: Facing Rublev
Fans eagerly await Draper's upcoming clash with Andrey Rublev in the final. Rublev, a formidable opponent with a track record of 16 ATP titles, poses a significant challenge. Currently trailing with a 0-3 head-to-head record against Rublev, Draper hopes to capitalize on this newfound momentum. The last time they met was during the 2023 US Open, where Rublev emerged victorious. Rublev's journey to the final included dominant victories over tough competitors like Felix Auger-Aliassime, Alexander Bublik, and others.
Draper also reflected on his improving game and fitness, expressing optimism about his game strategy and physical readiness as the tournament progressed. The British No.16 has been demonstrating impressive form throughout the Qatar Open, having brushed aside tough opponents including Alexei Popyrin, Christopher O’Connell, and notably, Matteo Berrettini, who had previously upset Novak Djokovic.
Adding further excitement to the tournament, the Qatar Open will host an all-British doubles final. Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski will square off against fellow Brits Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash. Salisbury and Skupski managed to oust the reigning Australian Open champions Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara in their semi-final, while Glasspool and Cash secured their finals spot by defeating the duo of Yuri Bhambri and Ivan Dodig.
This tournament has not only underscored Draper's determination and skill but also highlighted the strength of British tennis on the doubles front. Fans eagerly anticipate the finals, where high-stakes matches and intense rivalries promise to provide an unforgettable spectacle.
