British tennis player Jack Draper has announced that he will not compete again until early 2027, effectively ending his 2026 season due to ongoing injury issues. The 24-year-old, once ranked as high as fourth in the world during the summer of 2025, has struggled with a persistent arm injury and knee tendonitis over the past 15 months, which have severely impacted his ability to play.

Draper’s recent absence from the court has led to a significant drop in his ranking, with the player now positioned at 155th globally. He missed all four Grand Slam tournaments in 2026, including a last-minute withdrawal from Wimbledon. His most recent match came last month at the Cincinnati Open, where he exited in the first round.

In a statement posted on social media, Draper explained that he intends to use the remainder of the year to recover fully, aiming to return to professional tennis at the start of next season. He emphasized the importance of healing and preparation, saying he wants to ensure he is “100 per cent ready to go” before competing again.

“Tennis is my purpose and passion, so when I step back on court I want to make sure that there’s nothing holding me back from where I want to go,” Draper said, highlighting his commitment to regaining his form and pursuing his career ambitions despite the setbacks.

The young British player’s injuries have raised questions about his long-term prospects in the sport, as he works to overcome physical challenges and rebuild his ranking. His hiatus marks a significant pause in a career that showed considerable promise before being derailed by health issues.