The start of the new tennis season has delivered an unexpected setback for Emma Raducanu, after Jack Draper confirmed he will not be returning to action in Australia as planned. Draper’s withdrawal means the two British stars will no longer begin 2026 side by side, both on court and as part of Team GB’s early-season plans.
Draper has been sidelined since the US Open in late August, where he retired from his second-round match because of an arm injury. His comeback has been repeatedly delayed, with several tournaments missed as he worked through the final stages of recovery. Australia was expected to mark his return, but those plans are now on hold.
In a message to fans, Draper explained that missing a Grand Slam is a painful decision, but stepping straight back into best-of-five-set tennis would be too risky. He described this injury as the most challenging of his career so far, but one that has strengthened his resolve. Draper said he is focused on returning fully fit and competing again later in 2026.
For Raducanu, the news is a double blow. Draper’s absence means he will also miss the United Cup, where the pair were set to represent Great Britain together. It would have been their first time teaming up in an official mixed team competition, and his withdrawal leaves Team GB needing a replacement at short notice.
Beyond the impact on the squad, Draper’s absence also removes a familiar and motivating presence for Raducanu. The two have known each other since their junior days and have often spoken about the healthy rivalry and mutual support they share. Raducanu has said that seeing fellow British players succeed pushes her to raise her own level, describing it as positive competition that keeps everyone hungry to improve.
Draper’s withdrawal also reshapes Britain’s presence at the Australian Open, with one of its leading male players missing from the draw. While Raducanu will still head into the season with her own goals and preparations, the absence of a close teammate changes the dynamic on and off the court.
For now, Draper’s focus remains firmly on recovery, while Raducanu prepares to start the year without the partner she expected alongside her. As both players look ahead to 2026, the hope is that this setback will be temporary, setting the stage for a stronger return and another chapter in British tennis built on resilience and shared ambition.
