Jack Draper Advances to US Open Fourth Round as Dan Evans Falls Short

Great Britain’s Jack Draper reached the last 16 of the US Open with an emphatic victory over Botic van de Zandschulp, while compatriot Dan Evans ran out of steam in a third-round defeat to Alex de Minaur.

Draper, the British number one, capitalized on the draw’s unexpected openness following Carlos Alcaraz’s earlier exit at the hands of Van de Zandschulp. Draper dispatched the Dutchman with a commanding 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win, showcasing his clinical form despite challenging conditions. “I’m not waking up every day worried about playing five sets,” Draper said, reflecting on his improved fitness and confidence after a tough injury-plagued year.

Meanwhile, Dan Evans faced a grueling battle on Louis Armstrong Stadium after his historic first-round win over Karen Khachanov. Despite leveling the match at one-set all, the toll of his earlier marathon caught up with the 34-year-old. Evans eventually succumbed to De Minaur, who won 12 consecutive games to secure a 6-3, 6-7 (4-7), 6-0, 6-0 victory.

Evans acknowledged his physical struggles but remained determined to finish the match. “I’m not one to retire unless I can’t walk. I want to give Alex the win – I think he deserves to take the win,” Evans said, earning respect from his opponent and the crowd. Despite the loss, Evans leaves New York with the distinction of playing the longest match in US Open history.

Draper, now ranked 25th in the world, will face Czech Tomas Machac in the fourth round, with a potential quarter-final appearance in sight. As the tournament progresses, Draper remains one of Britain’s key hopes, especially with the absence of top seeds like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz.