In a disappointing turn of events, British player Jack Draper was compelled to retire during the third set of his Mexican Open semi-final in Acapulco against Australian defending champion Alex de Minaur.
The 22-year-old sought treatment from the physiotherapist and tournament doctor during the second set. Despite losing the opening set 6-3, Draper displayed resilience to claim the second set 6-2 with formidable returns.
Unfortunately, Draper, facing a 4-0 deficit in the decider, had to withdraw from the match due to feeling unwell. In a post on Instagram, he expressed his regret, congratulated De Minaur, and wished him luck in the final.
De Minaur acknowledged Draper's evident discomfort after the second set and decided to intensify his play in the third set. Despite dropping the second set, De Minaur strategically sought to make the match more challenging for Draper, recognizing the Briton's talent and expressing hope that the health issue is not severe.
De Minaur, currently ranked ninth globally, extended well-wishes to Draper for a swift recovery. In the upcoming final, De Minaur will face Norwegian player Casper Ruud, who secured victory over Denmark's Holger Rune with a scoreline of 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.
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