Jack Draper’s meteoric rise to No. 4 in the world came to a crushing halt with one devastating announcement. The 23-year-old British star revealed he’s shutting down his entire 2025 season to heal a nagging left arm injury that derailed his US Open dreams. But in tennis, support often comes from the most unexpected places, and American Grand Slam champion Sloane Stephens stepped up with a message that resonated across the sport.
What Did Sloane Stephens Say to Jack Draper After His Season-Ending Setback?
Draper’s injury struggles have haunted him throughout 2025. After climbing to a career-high No. 4 in the ATP rankings, the Brit had positioned himself as a legitimate contender for a coveted spot at the ATP Finals in Turin.
However, his momentum crashed during Wimbledon. A bone bruise diagnosed after his second-round loss to Marin Cilic at the Championships became the injury that wouldn’t go away. The problem lingered through the summer hard-court swing. It ultimately forced him to retire before his second-round clash against Zizou Bergs in New York, despite opening with a solid victory over Federico Agustin Gomez.
In a heartfelt Instagram update, Draper revealed the painful decision to end his season early. “Unfortunately, the injury to my arm is something I have to rest and means I’ll be sitting out the rest of 2025. It is very difficult for me to accept as I was building some incredible momentum this year and playing some great stuff,” Draper wrote.
“However I’ve been through this before… and I always come back stronger as I’m so motivated to fulfil my potential as a player. Huge thanks to everyone who backs me to do well and supports me on my journey. Can’t wait to get back out there and give it my all. See you soon!”
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Stephens, who battled her own injury demons in 2025 with a foot problem that disrupted her WTA schedule, knew exactly what Draper was going through. She responded directly under his post with a simple but powerful message: “You’ll be back.”
How Much Will This Setback Cost Jack Draper?
The financial and professional costs of Draper’s decision extend far beyond missing tournaments. He’ll forfeit his spot in the lucrative Six Kings Slam exhibition in Saudi Arabia and surrender crucial ranking points from defending his title at the Vienna Open.
For a player who fought so hard to break into the top 10, losing those points will send him tumbling down the rankings just as he established himself among tennis’s elite.
Draper’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of spectacular despite the heartbreaking ending. He reached the fourth round at the Australian Open and French Open, made the Doha final, and captured his breakthrough moment by winning his first Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells. That victory catapulted him into the top 10 for the first time.
The season also included a Madrid final appearance, a Rome quarterfinal run, and a Queen’s semifinal showing. Only the early exits at Wimbledon and the US Open marred what should have been a career-defining year for the young Brit.
