The semi-final clash, which was highly anticipated, began with both players exchanging powerful shots in what was expected to be a tightly contested affair. Draper, the rising British talent, entered the match with high hopes, having dispatched several top seeds to reach the semi-finals. Sinner, the Italian sensation, was also in top form, setting the stage for what many believed would be an epic battle.
However, things took a sudden and unexpected turn late in the second set. Draper, who had been playing solid tennis up to that point, started to visibly struggle. As his movement slowed and he appeared pale, many in the crowd could tell something was wrong. Moments later, Draper collapsed onto the baseline, vomiting on the court, causing a brief halt in the match.
Medical personnel were quickly called to the scene, attending to Draper as fans and onlookers watched in shock. The 21-year-old seemed disoriented, wiping his face and repeatedly requesting assistance from the trainers. Draper was assessed on the sidelines, where he insisted on continuing to play despite his condition.
In a post-match interview, Draper made the bombshell accusation that he believed he had been poisoned. Though he did not provide specific details, Draper insinuated that something was seriously wrong with his physical state before and during the match. “I don’t know what happened, but I feel like I was poisoned. This isn’t normal,” Draper told reporters, visibly frustrated by the sudden health scare. “I’ve never felt like this in my life, and it was horrible to experience that in such an important match.”
Sinner, who looked visibly concerned for his opponent during the match, showed sportsmanship by checking on Draper several times and offering him encouragement. “It’s always tough to see an opponent in that kind of condition. I hope he’s okay,” Sinner said after the match. Despite the unusual circumstances, the Italian kept his composure and went on to secure a dominant win in straight sets, advancing to his first-ever US Open final.
The aftermath of Draper’s shocking meltdown and his poisoning claim has left fans and analysts puzzled. While some have speculated about the possibility of food poisoning or dehydration, Draper’s suggestion of foul play has sent shockwaves through the tennis world. Officials at the US Open were quick to respond, saying they would thoroughly investigate the incident to ensure the safety of players at the tournament.
“We take these allegations very seriously,” a spokesperson for the US Open said in a statement. “The health and well-being of our players is our top priority, and we will be conducting a full investigation into Jack Draper’s claims. We will also be reviewing all protocols related to food and beverages to ensure there are no security breaches.”
As Draper was escorted off the court by medical personnel, concerns about his health and the legitimacy of his accusations lingered in the air. His team has yet to issue a formal statement regarding his physical condition or the claim of poisoning. Many in the tennis community, including fellow players and analysts, have expressed their support for Draper but urged caution in jumping to conclusions.
Former tennis legend Andy Murray, who has mentored Draper in the past, commented on the situation, saying, “It’s incredibly sad to see Jack in that condition. I know him well, and he’s not the type to make up stories. Whatever happened, I hope the truth comes out, and he gets the care he needs.”
For Jannik Sinner, the focus now turns to the US Open final, where he will face either Novak Djokovic or Carlos Alcaraz. The Italian’s performance, overshadowed by the drama surrounding Draper’s collapse, was nonetheless outstanding. Sinner showed great poise under pressure, staying calm in a chaotic situation and maintaining his high level of play.
As for Draper, his future remains uncertain. The 21-year-old’s rise through the tennis ranks has been nothing short of remarkable, but this latest incident may have a lasting impact on his career and health. Fans and officials alike will be eagerly awaiting updates on his condition and the results of the US Open’s investigation into the matter.
Regardless of the outcome, this semi-final will be remembered not for the tennis played but for the extraordinary and disturbing scenes that unfolded on the court.