British tennis sensations Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper are back on the grind, preparing side by side for their highly anticipated partnership at the 2026 United Cup. The pair were recently spotted sweating it out on the hard courts, showcasing renewed energy after both endured injury-plagued endings to their 2025 campaigns.
Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper Gear Up for a Defining United Cup Campaign
The United Cup will mark the first time Raducanu and Draper represent Great Britain together in an official team competition. The 10-day mixed-gender tournament, running from January 2 to 11, combines ATP and WTA players competing under their national banners, making it a crucial pre-Australian Open fixture.
For Raducanu and Draper, it is a comeback stage after months of recovery. Both players cut their 2025 seasons short due to separate physical issues, leaving fans eager to see how they will fare once they return to the court in January.
In a recent clip shared by the Lawn Tennis Association on its official X account, Raducanu and Draper were seen arriving at the National Tennis Centre before diving into intense solo practice sessions. Raducanu appeared in sharp form as she worked on her groundstrokes and footwork, while Draper was spotted honing his serve and forehand power.
The work doesn’t stop 🔥
Go behind the scenes with the Brits at the National Tennis Centre pic.twitter.com/z9t18VF3CF
— LTA (@the_LTA) November 6, 2025
How Did Injuries Derail Raducanu and Draper’s 2025 Seasons?
The practice sessions come after a difficult few months for both. Raducanu’s 2025 season ended prematurely in mid-October when she was forced to retire from the Ningbo Open due to lower back issues. Her last match saw her struggle physically against China’s Zhu Lin, and before that, she had withdrawn from the Wuhan Open due to dizziness.
Draper’s road has not been smooth either. The 23-year-old dealt with an arm injury following Wimbledon that kept him out of competition for nearly two months, followed by bone bruising that hampered his US Open campaign.
MORE: Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper Make Their Feelings Known on Decision To Team Up for United Cup
Although he bowed out in the first round of singles in New York, he reached the mixed doubles semifinals alongside American star Jessica Pegula, hinting at his potential in team formats, which could bode well for Great Britain at the upcoming United Cup. Both players now appear fully recovered and eager to start fresh as they represent their country on one of tennis’ biggest early-season stages.
Draper is also set to compete alongside several top players at the third edition of the Macau Tennis Masters, scheduled for December 27-28 at the Macau Forum in China. Rising talents such as Mirra Andreeva and Jakub Mensik are among those confirmed to participate.
