MEXICO CITY, 27 December (H.S.): British tennis star Jack Draper has officially withdrawn from the 2026 Australian Open, citing incomplete recovery from a lingering hand injury. The 24-year-old, currently ranked World No. 10, announced his decision on Friday, describing it as one of the toughest calls of his career.

Draper sustained bone bruising in his left hand during the US Open in August, which forced him to retire from the second round of the Grand Slam. Since then, he has remained in an extended rehabilitation program under medical supervision.

In a heartfelt message shared via a video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Draper said, “Unfortunately, my team and I have decided not to travel to Australia this year. It’s been an extremely difficult decision for me.”

The British No. 1 further explained that this particular injury has been “the most complex and challenging” of his career so far but admitted that the setback had made him “mentally stronger and more resilient.”

Draper has now shifted his focus toward making a competitive return in February, with plans to defend his Indian Wells Masters title in March.The 2026 Australian Open is scheduled to take place in Melbourne from January 18, and Draper’s absence is seen as a major blow to the tournament’s opening lineup, especially considering his rising form and strong performances earlier this year.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar