Jack Draper has never gone past the Wimbledon second round British number one Jack Draper began his Wimbledon bid with a commanding performance before his opponent Sebastian Baez retired through injury. Draper, who is seeded fourth after a stunning rise over the past 12 months, was leading 6-2 6-2 2-1 when Baez retired after one hour and 14 minutes. Clay-court specialist Baez needed treatment in the second set after slipping on the Court One baseline. "I wanted to play a bit longer in all honesty. I felt I was getting my tennis together," said Draper. "Obviously it is no way to win like that and I wish Sebastian the best in his recovery." In the first Championships since Andy Murray's retirement, there is increased focus on 23-year-old Draper. Much tougher tests lie ahead that Argentina's Baez, who has not won on grass in more than two years. Nevertheless it was a confident start from the host nation's biggest hope of success this fortnight. Draper next faces 36-year-old Marin Cilic, the 2017 runner-up whose grass-court nous should still provide a threat. The retirement of three-time Grand Slam winner Murray, who ended Britain's 77-year wait for a home Wimbledon champion in 2013, signalled the completion of a changing of the guard. Draper had already taken over as the nation's leading men's player when he played at the All England Club last year. But another second-round exit - this time to Cameron Norrie, who he replaced as British number one - means Draper has still not yet ignited Wimbledon like his predecessor Murray. While far from 'Murray-mania', there are clear signs the home fans are starting to emotionally invest in Draper. There was barely an empty seat on Court One as he took control in the opening two sets, with a poster bearing his face regularly waved courtside another indication of the growing love. "I don't feel about pressure until people mentioned it every five minutes," Draper said. "I just concentrate on what I can control."
Draper through Wimbledon opener as opponent retires
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"Jack Draper Advances in Wimbledon After Sebastian Baez Retires Due to Injury"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Jack Draper, the fourth seed and British number one, commenced his Wimbledon campaign with a commanding performance, although it was marred by the early retirement of his opponent, Sebastian Baez, due to injury. Draper was leading decisively at 6-2, 6-2, and 2-1 when Baez, a clay-court specialist, was forced to retire after one hour and 14 minutes of play. The retirement occurred after Baez slipped on the Court One baseline and required medical attention in the second set. Draper expressed his disappointment regarding the abrupt end to the match, stating, 'I wanted to play a bit longer in all honesty. I felt I was getting my tennis together.' He also extended his best wishes to Baez for a speedy recovery, highlighting the sportsmanship in the face of unexpected circumstances. This match marked the beginning of a significant tournament for Draper, especially in light of the retirement of three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray, which has shifted the focus of British tennis onto the 23-year-old Draper.
Looking ahead, Draper is set to face Marin Cilic, a seasoned competitor and the 2017 Wimbledon runner-up, in what promises to be a more challenging match. While Baez has struggled on grass courts recently, Draper's performance suggests he is ready to take on tougher opponents. The atmosphere around Draper is changing, with fans gradually beginning to rally behind him as he steps into the void left by Murray. During his opening match, Court One was nearly full, and spectators displayed their support, with posters of Draper visible in the crowd. Although Draper has yet to replicate the fervor of 'Murray-mania,' there are indications that he is becoming a fan favorite. He remains focused on his game, downplaying any pressure by stating, 'I don't feel about pressure until people mentioned it every five minutes. I just concentrate on what I can control.' As he advances in the tournament, all eyes will be on Draper to see if he can fulfill the hopes of British tennis fans and make a significant impact at Wimbledon this year.
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