"Going through something so emotionally demanding isn’t easy": Jack Draper attributes Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz’s shock exits to Olympics fatigue
Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz suffered shock defeats at the 2024 US Open, with the latter’s exit also clearing a potential path for Jack Draper. The Briton would have faced Alcaraz in the third round had the latter made it that far, but instead played Botic Van de Zandschulp and won in straight sets.
In Draper’s eyes, both Djokovic and Alcaraz’s early losses did not come out of the blue. Speaking to the media during his post-match press conference, he attributed them to possible fatigue.
While saying the exits were "obviously weird,” the Briton said chasing the Olympic medal just a few weeks ago must have taken a toll on both players.
“It’s obviously weird, but they both played in the Olympic final and you can see that it has taken its toll on both of them. The Olympics take their toll on everyone, but they made it to the final and it was a very emotional event for both of them,” Draper said.
Draper also took note of Djokovic’s long pursuit of the Olympic gold which was finally achieved in Paris this year, as well as Alcaraz's Major title wins this year, and the emotions attached to such moments.
“For Novak that was probably his biggest goal and to come through that... it's obviously emotionally challenging.
"Same with Carlos...he's achieved so much this year, winning the French [Open], Wimbledon… I’m not surprised not surprised that, you know, they're probably feeling really tired and emotionally a bit drained,” Draper added.
“Many players on the circuit who are very dangerous” - Jack Draper on Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz US Open exits
Jack Draper has spoken positively about the depth of the men’s game, saying there are several players capable of playing at a high level and challenging the best.
He heaped praise on both Alexei Popyrin and Botic Van de Zandschulp, who took out Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, respectively.
“I did watch both matches though: I think Botic played a very high level of tennis against Alcaraz, and as for Popyrin, I watched the first two sets before I went to sleep and I didn’t feel that Djokovic played incredibly badly.
“Maybe his serve was below average, but Popyrin played a tremendous match, and he had won in Montreal. Right now, there are many players on the circuit who are very dangerous and who any day can play an incredible match against the best in the world,” Draper said.
With Djokovic and Alcaraz’s exits, only two former Grand Slam winners, top seed Jannik Sinner and former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev, remain in the draw.