Former world number four Jack Draper has announced he will not play again this season as he focuses on recovery from bone bruising in his serving arm. The 24-year-old tennis player has only participated in nine events since last year's Wimbledon due to the injury.
Draper, who missed the US Open, expressed his intention to return to the tour at the beginning of next year. He posted on Instagram, stating, "I am taking this time to reset and heal so when I return I am 100% ready to go." He added that he wants to ensure nothing holds him back when he steps back on court.
Currently ranked 155, Draper will not qualify for a protected ranking upon his return in January, as this is only available to players out for over six months. This means he would likely need wildcards or to go through qualifying rounds for Grand Slams and ATP Tour events.
Draper has been experimenting with natural gut strings and a lighter racquet to ease the burden on his arm, and is also making changes to his serve. Diet is another area being examined as a potential contributing factor to his injury. Andy Murray remains part of his coaching team, though further assistance will be required for a permanent coach to work alongside Murray once Draper returns.