US Open 2024: Jack Draper reaches first Grand Slam quarter-final with straight sets win over Tomas Mahac

Jack Draper has reached the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career by defeating Tomas Mahac, who is ranked No. 39 in the world, in a remarkable manner with a straight-set victory.

Draper defeated the Czech player six times to win 6-3, 6-1, 6-2 in just under two hours. This victory means Draper will now face either Alex de Minaur or Jordan Thompson in the quarterfinals.

He did even better than last year's fourth round exit at the US Open, achieving his best-ever Grand Slam performance.

In a challenging matchup against a player he has lost to three times before, the British star exceeded expectations by playing at his highest level of the week. Draper is the only player remaining in the draw who has not lost a set.

"I found our recent matches to be quite challenging," Draper mentioned during his post-game interview. "Although my opponent wasn't at his peak performance today, I knew I had to maintain my resolve during the points."

"It's truly incredible to be able to compete on the Louis Armstrong court. I was defeated at this stage last year, so it feels great to come back and improve this year."

"I am so thrilled to be in the top eight, reaching my first quarter-final - it is incredibly meaningful to me."

Mahac had a strong beginning in the match, only losing one point in his first three service games. However, he had a bad game with four unforced errors, which allowed Draper to break his serve and ultimately lead to a surprising victory.

Even though Mahac and his coach were arguing and feeling irritated, Draper remained focused. He excelled in hitting the ball from the baseline, especially when pushed to the sides, and also approached the net more often, resulting in 35 impressive winners.

In a critical moment during the match, he successfully defended against five break points at 4-1 and 5-2, ultimately achieving one of the most significant victories of his career.

"I just have to continue moving forward. I have some incredible people supporting me. I enjoy performing here in New York in front of such dedicated fans who always rally behind and encourage the players."

"I'm excited to give it another shot, I enjoy performing at these large venues. I'm eagerly anticipating it and looking forward to playing here once more on Wednesday."

Draper is now the fifth British man to make it to the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows during the Open Era, following in the footsteps of John Lloyd, Greg Rusedski, Tim Henman, and Andy Murray.

Following a big accomplishment in his career, Draper once again honored his friend and role model Murray during his first Grand Slam without the retired top-ranked player.

"I definitely miss Andy, big shoutout to Andy, he has had an amazing career," Draper stated.

"He's a legend in the sport - I feel his absence in the locker rooms, I miss being near his smelly shoes and clothes. Andy is an icon and I would be content if my career is even half as successful as his."

Draper will compete in his quarter-final match on Wednesday.