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

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, which last year had a total purse of £10million.

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.

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 between points.

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There are also opportunities for players to boost their points tally through the use of bonus cards, while unlimited coaching is available from the sidelines. The Grand Final is the culmination of the year-long tour, which travels across the globe and for the last two years, has been held at the Copper Box in London.

Draper does have a history with the event, having won it on his debut two years ago. He beat the likes of Casper Ruud and Holger Rune in the capital, while banking a healthy £431,000 for his efforts. Draper will likely use the December outing as part of his off-season preperations.

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!"