Rafael Nadal vulnerable to a first round upset at the hands of Jack Draper

James Richardson 12 Jan 2023 3:33 PM

Former British No 1 Tim Henman believes that Jack Draper has the tools to take down Rafael Nadal in the first round of the Australian Open.

Nadal probably wasn’t thrilled to see the athletic young Brit’s name alongside his in the main draw.

Naturally, Nadal is still the heavy favourite to win the encounter but the first round match will pose a huge challenge to someone who hasn’t played a lot of matches in recent weeks.

Henman also feels that Draper enjoying a front row seat for Cameron Norrie’s United Cup win over the 22-time Grand Slam champion.

Nadal lost both his United Cup singles matches, going down to Alex de Minaur and Norrie.

The defending champion might have hoped for an easier bed-in and the physical challenge that Draper poses might even hamper his progress in defeat.

Speaking to Eurosport, Henman said: “It’s a great opportunity for Jack.

“Having just sat on a court where Cam Norrie beat Nadal in the United Cup, I think it’s fair to say that Nadal is a little bit vulnerable. He hasn’t won a lot of matches recently. He lost both his matches at the United Cup.”

Draper has also been in great touch at the Adelaide International 2, where he has reached the last four.

“I’m sure he’s been working incredibly hard in practice but you want the confirmation on the match court and Jack is obviously playing well in Adelaide this week,” Henman added.

Henman believes that Draper’s chances of beating Nadal are greater for the meeting taking place early in te tournament before the Raging Bull can build up a head of steam.

“I think if you’re going to come up against one of the world’s very best players, the first round is the time to play [them] so I definitely think it’s a case that Jack has nothing to lose and a lot to gain.”

Draper will face Kwon Soon-woo in the semi-finals of the Adelaide International 2 having beaten the Korean in the opening round of the International 1 tournament the week before.

The Young Brit also avenged a defeat to Karen Khachanov to secure his place in the last four.

“Against guys like Karen, you can’t give them an inch, otherwise they run away with it,” Draper said after earning his first ATP win in three tries against Khachanov.

“He plays so aggressively and serves really big. Off the back of the court he looks to be on the front foot, and if you’re not willing to try and get up there with him, he takes charge of the game. I did well to impose my game a little bit more today than last week.”

His run in Adelaide has included victories over Lorenzo Sonego and Tommy Paul.

Draper will face Nadal on Monday, 16 January, at a time yet to be determined.

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