Jack Draper opens up on secret weapon that helped down Alex de Minaur at US Open
Jack Draper
US Open
Jack Draper has admitted what his secret weapon was in his battle against Alex de Minaur in the US Open - his trainers.
The 22-year-old thrashed the world No. 10 in the quarter-final of the Grand Slam tournament 6-3 7-5 6-2 - continuing his brilliant record of not dropping a single set at Flushing Meadows this year.
And Draper heralded an old America hero in his remarkable victory, which also sees him reach his first Grand Slam semi-final.
After changing his shoes midway through the contest, the British No. 1 said: "The thing with Nike is it is such an iconic brand that they have got so many throwbacks.
Jack Draper has reached the semi-final of the US Open
US Open
"This being the [Andre] Agassi [trainers from] back in the day.
"I don't know how he moved with these shoes, honestly. I can't imagine sliding in these. Unbelievable shoes and I brought them out."
Agassi
Draper will now face either world No. 1 Jannik Sinner or 2021 US Open champion Daniil Medvedev, who play later on Tuesday night.
When asked if he would stay up to watch and find out his next opponent on Friday, he said: "I'm a big sports fan and a big tennis fan.
"So I'll definitely be watching the match tonight if it doesn't go too late and just enjoy the win and relax."
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Both players had injury concerns in the match with De Minaur's hip problems from Wimbledon resurfacing while Draper had his right leg taped up.
But the two put on a heroic display at the Arthur Ashe Stadium with the young Briton proving too strong, particularly his devilish serve which left his opponent bamboozled on several occasions.
"I think I played a solid match," Draper added.
"I feel the best fitness wise that I have in a long long time. That's where Alex has got me in the past.
Jack Draper could not believe Andre Agassi could move like he did in the same trainers
US Open
"I think he was struggling a little bit today with something which may have helped me a little bit.
"Credit to Alex, he is an amazing fighter, an unbelievable player and we are going to have many more battles to come."
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Jack Draper has reached an incredible personal milestone
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Draper had never reached a Grand Slam quarter-final, let alone semi-final, before in his career - which has been dogged by injuries.
And while it is too early to pass the torch after Andy Murray's retirement earlier this year, these are positive signs for British tennis.
"To be out here, my first match on the biggest court in the world, it's a dream come true for me. Thank you for the support, it means the world," Draper added.