Jack Draper Joins Great Britain Davis Cup Squad Amid Fitness Concerns

Rising British tennis star Jack Draper is set to join the Great Britain Davis Cup squad on Tuesday, despite fitness concerns following a physically taxing US Open campaign. Draper, 22, who reached the semi-finals in New York before falling to Italian world number one Jannik Sinner, has been managing a "niggle" picked up during the tournament.

A spokesperson for Draper confirmed his commitment to the Davis Cup team and emphasized his determination to be ready for the upcoming matches. "After a short turnaround following the US Open, Jack will be joining the team in Manchester on Tuesday ahead of the first match on Wednesday," the spokesperson said. "Jack and his team are working hard to get fit, and Leon [Smith] will take all this into account when he makes his team selection."

Great Britain, captained by Leon Smith, will face Finland in their opening Group D match on Wednesday, followed by ties against Argentina on Friday and defending champions Canada on Sunday. Draper's participation will be crucial as the team competes for a place in the finals in November.

The British squad has seen some late changes, with Henry Patten replacing Joe Salisbury, who withdrew due to injury. Patten, who won the Wimbledon men's doubles title alongside Finland's Harri Heliovaara, brings valuable experience to the team. Alongside Patten, captain Smith has named seasoned players Dan Evans, Neal Skupski, and Billy Harris, who replaces former British number one Cameron Norrie after his injury-related withdrawal from the US Open.

While Draper’s fitness remains in question, his presence in the squad offers a significant boost. Having enjoyed a breakthrough season and pushing top players on the world stage, his return to British soil for the Davis Cup could energize the team.

The Davis Cup finals, which feature the top eight teams, will take place in Malaga, Spain, in November, but Great Britain must first navigate the challenges of a competitive Group D. With Canada, Argentina, and Finland standing in their way, the British squad will need to deliver strong performances if they are to secure a spot in the finals.

Draper’s recovery and readiness will be pivotal for Great Britain's Davis Cup hopes, with fans eagerly anticipating his return to action in what promises to be an intense week of tennis.