British number one Jack Draper has been forced to withdraw from the US Open 2025 due to a persistent arm injury, dealing a significant blow to his title aspirations at Flushing Meadows. The 23-year-old, who reached the semi-finals last year, was considered a strong contender for this year's championship.

Draper's journey in the tournament began with a hard-fought victory over Argentine qualifier Federico Agustin Gomez in four sets on Tuesday. However, the discomfort in his arm became unbearable, leading to his withdrawal before his scheduled match against Belgium's Zizou Bergs on Thursday.

In a statement posted on X, Draper expressed his disappointment: "I tried my very best to be here and give myself every chance to play, but the discomfort in my arm has become too much. I have to do what is right and look after myself."

Draper had been struggling with a bruised humerus on his left serving arm, an injury that had already disrupted his preparations. He arrived in New York having not played since his second-round defeat at Wimbledon in early July, having withdrawn from key tournaments in Canada and Cincinnati to focus on recovery.

Despite his injury, Draper participated in the US Open mixed doubles tournament alongside Jessica Pegula last week, wearing a protective sleeve on his injured arm during his first-round match. Reflecting on his participation, Draper admitted, "I wasn't too sure if I was going to make it here."

Draper practiced in New York on Wednesday morning but later announced his inability to continue in the tournament. This withdrawal is a significant setback for the British star, who had a breakout performance in New York last year. His ranking points from his semi-final run will drop off after the tournament, potentially affecting his bid to qualify for the year-end ATP Tour Finals.

This development leaves British tennis fans and the global tennis community eagerly awaiting updates on Draper's recovery and future plans.

More to follow.