Sinner Defeats Draper in Tough US Open Semi-Final
In a highly anticipated semi-final at the 2024 US Open, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner defeated British rising star Jack Draper in straight sets — 7‑5, 7‑6(3), 6‑2 — despite Draper battling illness throughout the match. The National+3India Today+3ESPN.com+3
Draper’s Physical Struggles
Draper, in his first Grand Slam semi-final, showed grit and aggressive baseline play. But early signs indicated he was not fully well. He vomited multiple times, twice before the end of the second set, and requested medical assistance and breaks. ESPN.com+2The National+2
Conditions were humid, and Draper also suffered from nausea and general fatigue, which visibly affected his movement and shot-making as the match progressed. Khel Now+2The National+2
Sinner’s Performance and Composure
Sinner remained composed throughout, despite his own issues — notably a left wrist injury after a slip during the second set. He took a medical timeout but didn’t allow it to derail his momentum. ATP Tour+1
He used long rallies, clever placement, and consistent serving to exploit Draper’s weakened physical state. His tie-break performance in the second set was especially decisive. ATP Tour+1
Turning Points
- Draper pushed Sinner hard in the first set, going toe-to-toe and making it competitive up to 6‑5. But Sinner broke back and closed the set 7‑5. BBC+2ATP Tour+2
- The second set was tightly contested; Draper held serve in difficult moments but was ultimately edged out in the tiebreak. ESPN.com+1
- By the third set Draper’s energy visibly dropped. Sinner broke early and gradually took full control, finishing the match in just over three hours. ATP Tour+2ESPN.com+2
What’s Next
- For Draper: Though he fell short, his performance garnered widespread respect. Overcoming illness and still competing at that level suggests significant potential for future Grand Slams. He’ll likely take time to recover, both physically and mentally, and use this experience to build resilience. The National+1
- For Sinner: This win moved him into the US Open final, reinforcing his status among the elite. Handling adversity — both his own injury and Draper’s resistance — displayed his maturity and readiness for title contention. ATP Tour+1
Final Thoughts
While Draper’s illness and physical decline were clearly factors, he showed remarkable heart. Sinner’s consistency and mental toughness proved decisive in a match where endurance mattered as much as skill. The match will be remembered not just for its scoreline but for the sheer test of will Draper imposed and Sinner overcame.
