Jack Draper's historic U.S. Open run came to an abrupt end in the semifinals on Friday when an apparent on-court illness forced him to vomit multiple times. However, his opponent, Jannik Sinner, also faced his own medical challenges during the grueling match.
The conditions inside Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday proved to be relentless, taking a toll on both competitors in the men's semifinal of the U.S. Open. British tennis star Jack Draper endured a particularly trying afternoon, battling through an apparent on-court illness that resulted in him vomiting multiple times.
"It's the worst feeling ever," Draper confessed after the match, as reported by Tennis.com. "You can't move around the court when that happens."
Draper's U.S. Open Misery: Vomiting, Ill-Timed Wrist Injury Plague Semifinal
Draper's struggles began in the second set, with trainers attending to him twice after he vomited. The sight of a vacuum being used to clean up the court behind the baseline was reminiscent of the infamous incident during the 1996 U.S. Open when Pete Sampras lost his lunch during a win over Alex Corretja.
While Draper grappled with his illness, his opponent, Jannik Sinner, also faced medical challenges. Trainers were summoned to address an injured wrist, which Sinner continued to flex throughout the match. The 23-year-old Sinner had entered the tournament as the top-ranked player in the world, but he had been embroiled in controversy in the lead-up to the U.S. Open due to two failed drug tests in March.
Draper's U.S. Open Misery: Vomiting, Ill-Timed Wrist Injury Plague Semifinal
Despite their physical setbacks, both players displayed remarkable resilience. Draper continued to battle, despite the debilitating nature of his illness, while Sinner persevered through the pain in his wrist. The match became a testament to the indomitable spirit of these young athletes.
Ultimately, Sinner emerged victorious, reaching his first title match at Flushing Meadows and his second at a Grand Slam tournament this year. He acknowledged the challenging nature of the match, saying, "It was a very physical match, as we see. I just tried to stay there mentally."
Draper's U.S. Open Misery: Vomiting, Ill-Timed Wrist Injury Plague Semifinal
The conditions at Arthur Ashe Stadium were not just a physical test for the players, but also a psychological one. The high temperature and humidity turned the match into a grueling battle of attrition. Both Draper and Sinner showed admirable fortitude in overcoming their respective obstacles.
Sinner's victory sets up a thrilling final against either Taylor Fritz or Frances Tiafoe, who were scheduled to face off in an All-American semifinal later on Friday evening. On the women's side, American Jessica Pegula will take on Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus in Saturday's final.
The 2023 U.S. Open has witnessed its fair share of drama, surprises, and unprecedented challenges. Draper's on-court illness and Sinner's injured wrist served as reminders of the unpredictable and demanding nature of the sport, while their determination and resilience highlighted the unyielding spirit of competition.
