Jack Draper claimed that winning his first ATP Tour title after victory over Matteo Berrettini in Stuttgart Open final is testament to his years of hard work.
The 22-year-old recovered from a set down to triumph over the two-time winner on Sunday afternoon. He beat the Italian 3-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4, to climb to No 32 in the world rankings.
‘It is incredible. Thanks for all the support.’ He said after serving an ace to clinch the win. ‘It was a really tough match and I am really happy to win my first title. It means so much.
‘There has been a lot of hard work and a lot of tough moments. It is testament to the work I have been doing.’
Draper’s impressive run saw him eliminate defending champion Frances Tiafoe in the quarter-finals before dumping his compatriot Brandon Nakashima out in the last four. His success has also seen him become British No 1, overtaking Cam Norrie.
Jack Draper claimed his first ATP Tour title on Sunday after victory over Matteo Berrettini at the Stuttgart Open
Two-time winner Berrettini took the first set against the young Brit before coming unstuck in the final at Stuttgart
Berrettini hailed Draper after his defeat and backed the young Brit to go on and win more trophies in the future.
‘Congratulations to Jack – an unbelievable week, an unbelievable match. I am sure this guy is going to lift more trophies.’ The Italian said. ‘I got close and this will hurt for a bit, but that is tennis. Hopefully this is the first step on the grass-court season.
It was third time lucky for Draper on Sunday, following defeats in his two previous ATP finals. He fell to Adrian Mannarino at the Sofia Open last year before coming unstuck at the Adelaide International final in January.
Despite the momentous achievement, Draper insisted that there is no time for lavish celebrations as the grass court season ramps up, with a potential second round meeting against French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz at Queens just around the corner.
‘I have to play in London on Tuesday.’ He added. ‘In tennis, there is not a lot of time to celebrate.’
