Jack Draper Seeks Revenge over Hurkacz after Kokkinakis Drama
Locker Room
April 25, 2024
Jack Draper admitted he would love the taste of revenge over Hubert Hurkacz as a reward for his dramatic victory over Thanasi Kokkinakis.
The promising young Brit defeated Australian Kokkinakis 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 in Madrid.
Then he admitted: ‘It would be nice to get some revenge over Hurkacz. He has the best serve on tour – but I have put myself in winning positions in a lot of my recent losses.’
Only two weeks ago the formidable Pole edged out Draper in a tie-break in Monte Carlo. The youngster had battled his way back into contention by winning the second set – but faded just when it mattered.
Jack looked in great nick as he knocked out Kokkinakis in the Spanish capital, though – just when that contest appeared to be heading for a breaker too.
And Draper’s exquisite cross-court volley to close out the match was a just reward for some supreme sportsmanship in that final game.
Jack Draper will have the crowd on his side at Wimbledon 2024 as well. He is turning into quite a character.
His actions certainly pleased his audience in Madrid, when more ruthless players might have been less generous to their opponent in a key game.
Draper explained: ‘As he was hitting his serve, there was a loud noise, so I just said you can have a first serve again.
‘I ended up winning the point – and it’s good to show sportsmanship sometimes.’
Kokkinakis – doubles partner and best friend to the infamous Nick Kyrgios – certainly appreciated the gesture. He embraced the Englishman warmly at the net when all was said and done.
Draper knows that Hurkacz will provide an even tougher test. Yet the underdog is pleased with his own mindset at present.
‘Before, I was letting people play – and just staying in the point. Now I have realised you have to be braver – and I am showing that on court.’
Three years ago, plucky Jack even took a set off the great Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon. And he might be ready to go deep this time around.
Jack Draper could be ready to thrill Centre Court well into week two at Wimbledon 2024. If he can gain some early momentum, the sky is the limit.
Come and watch Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu at Wimbledon 2024. It’s always special when home-grown stars do well on the grass of the All England Club.
Sir Andy Murray will be there to take his final bow. Who would want to miss that?
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