Rising Star Jack Draper Withdraws from Rotterdam Open

Former British No. 1 Greg Rusedski sees Draper as a future tennis superstar despite injury concerns.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jack Draper's recent return to competitive tennis, marked by a Davis Cup appearance and a subsequent withdrawal from the Rotterdam Open, has sparked discussion about his potential and the challenges facing rising stars in the sport. Former British No. 1 Greg Rusedski remains optimistic, viewing Draper as a significant asset to the world of tennis despite ongoing injury concerns.

Why it matters

Draper's decision to withdraw from Rotterdam highlights the increasing importance of injury prevention and workload management in professional tennis, as the physical demands of the modern game are pushing athletes to their limits. Rusedski's endorsement of Draper's potential underscores the rising consensus around the young Briton's promise as a future tennis superstar.

The details

Draper attributed a previous injury to attempting to match the pace of top competitors like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in training, indicating the toll the intensity of the modern game is taking on young players. Rusedski has been impressed by Draper's self-awareness and mental fortitude in addressing his injury and recovery, which he believes are crucial for long-term success. The positive assessment of Draper's potential is not limited to Rusedski, as fellow former player Pat Cash has also identified him as a rising challenger to the established order.

  • Draper made a Davis Cup appearance prior to withdrawing from the Rotterdam Open.
  • Draper won the 2025 Indian Wells Open Masters 1000 title.
  • As of February 9, 2026, Draper is ranked No. 12 in the ATP rankings.

The players

Jack Draper

A rising British tennis player who has recently withdrawn from the Rotterdam Open due to injury concerns.

Greg Rusedski

A former British No. 1 tennis player and Grand Slam finalist who is optimistic about Draper's potential as a future tennis superstar.

Jannik Sinner

A top professional tennis player whose intense training pace and style of play have contributed to the physical demands of the modern game.

Carlos Alcaraz

A top professional tennis player whose intense training pace and style of play have contributed to the physical demands of the modern game.

Pat Cash

A former professional tennis player who has also identified Draper as a potential challenger to the established order in the sport.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.