Ugo Humbert and Jack Draper will be going head-to-head for the second time in their careers when they collide in the semifinals of the Eastbourne Open on Friday. Their only previous meeting came two years ago on the hard courts of Tokyo, where Humbert advanced via retirement while leading 7-5, 2-1.
Retirements, withdrawals, and general injury problems have been the story of Draper’s career. In fact, the 24-year-old played only one match on the clay-court swing and had not won a match since Indian Wells prior to arriving in Eastbourne. Having recovered from his latest knee issue, Draper’s comeback this week could not be going any better. The former world No. 4 — now ranked 160th — secured his spot in the last four by beating Marcos Giron 6-4, 7-6(5), Jack Pinnington Jones 7-5, 6-4, and Gabriel Diallo 6-1, 6-4.
Other than fellow Frenchman Adrian Mannarino, nobody is happier to leave clay and step onto grass than Humbert. The world No. 30 reached the semifinals at Queen’s Club and finds himself in the same stage in Eastbourne following victories over Mattia Bellucci, Jenson Brooksby, and Quentin Halys.
Draper, of course, represents a steep step up in competition. When healthy, the Brit is simply one of the best players in the world — especially on grass. Even with Wimbledon on the horizon, he should be motivated to eventually lift this ATP 250 trophy in front of the home crowd. Count on Draper getting the job done and continuing to get more and more matches under his belt before heading to the All-England Club.
Pick: Draper in 2