Britain’s Jack Draper made a successful return to competitive tennis on Monday, defeating American Marcos Giron 6-4, 7-6 (7-5) in the opening round of the Lexus Eastbourne Open. The victory marks a triumphant start to Draper’s new high-profile coaching partnership with three-time Grand Slam champion Sir Andy Murray.
The match at Devonshire Park was the 24-year-old Briton’s first competitive appearance since April 13, following a two-month layoff due to chronic arm, knee, and shoulder blade injuries. Currently ranked world No. 160 after his prolonged physical struggles, the former US Open semifinalist showed minimal signs of rust, closing out the first set in 35 minutes before battling through a tight second-set tiebreak.
Giron entered the draw on Monday morning as a lucky loser following the injury withdrawal of fellow American Brandon Nakashima. Despite the late call-up, Giron mounted a fierce second-set comeback, breaking Draper to love to force the tiebreak before the British wildcard ultimately prevailed.
With Murray watching courtside alongside long-term coach James Trotman, Draper secured a vital hard-court bounce-back victory just one week ahead of Wimbledon. Draper advances to the round of 16, where he will face fellow British player Jack Pinnington Jones on Wednesday.
