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Jack Draper signs up for exciting British event after pulling out of £10m Saudi exhibition

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Jack Draper will take up a wildcard for the UTS Grand Final set to be held in London later this year. It comes after an injury ruled him out for the rest of the tennis season, including the year-ending ATP Finals in Saudi Arabia.

Draper picked up an arm injury that forced him out of the US Open - a tournament he'd reached the semi-finals of just 12 months earlier. It was a frustrating end to the Slam season for Draper, having been knocked out in the second round of Wimbledon just a few weeks earlier.

The Brit released a statement announcing his season was coming to an end, with Draper keen to get back in shape ahead of January's visit down under for the Australian Open. Part of his preparation for the first Grand Slam of 2026 will come in the UTS Grand Final, with the 23-year-old opting to take a wildcard for the unorthodox event.

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The format is unlike any other tennis tournament, with players competing to earn as many points in four eight-minute quarters. Following that, a sudden-death deciding point is up for grabs, with no second serves available to players and shorter reset periods allowed in between points.

Posting on social media at the time of his injury, Draper said: "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.

"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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