In only his second appearance for Great Britain in the Davis Cup, Jack Draper faced a significant challenge.
Great Britain’s chances of overcoming Serbia and securing a spot in the Davis Cup semi-finals now hinge on Cameron Norrie, who must upset Novak Djokovic.
Britain is currently down 1-0 in the best-of-three series following Draper’s loss to Miomir Kecmanovic, with scores of 7-6 (7-2), 7-6 (8-6).
Norrie is set to confront Djokovic, a titan with 24 major titles, in the next singles match.
A victory for Norrie over the world’s top-ranked player would be a first in his career and would ensure that the doubles match determines the semi-finalist to face Italy on Saturday.
Draper expressed the pressure he felt, knowing that Norrie’s match against Djokovic was crucial: “It’s a daunting task to know that a lot is riding on my performance. I need to learn to handle and thrive under such pressure if I aim to be among the top players.”
The winner between Britain, who last triumphed in this event in 2015, and Serbia will meet Italy in the semi-finals, courtesy of Jannik Sinner’s earlier victory over the Netherlands.
Stay tuned for live updates on Britain’s Davis Cup quarter-final against Serbia.
Draper’s Close Call in Opening Match
Jack Draper, considered a promising talent on the ATP Tour, is relatively inexperienced in the Davis Cup scene.
The 21-year-old was in a critical position, with Britain’s progress likely depending on his victory, especially given Norrie’s daunting task of defeating Djokovic.
Stepping in for injured players Dan Evans and Andy Murray, Draper, ranked 60th globally, brought his powerful serve and baseline prowess to his debut Davis Cup match in September.
Despite a season marred by injuries, Draper entered the match with renewed confidence, bolstered by a recent streak of 17 victories in 21 matches.
Draper and the 55th-ranked Kecmanovic were evenly matched, but the Serbian clinched crucial points when it mattered most.
The first set featured intense rallies and powerful play from both. Draper saved several break and set points, but two double faults in the tie-break proved costly.
Kecmanovic’s passionate Serbian supporters cheered as he won the first set, a disappointing outcome for Draper, who had displayed commendable skill in the hour-long set.
The second set mirrored the first, with Draper less pressured. However, in a tense tie-break, Draper couldn’t capitalize on a comeback, eventually losing the match to Kecmanovic’s consistent play.
Reflecting on his performance, Draper acknowledged Kecmanovic’s strength: “His level of play is sometimes top 10-worthy. He’s incredibly consistent and rarely misses.”
Kecmanovic excelled in the first set, not facing a single break point and dominating with his first and second serves.
Stay updated with live scores, results, and the schedule.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Davis Cup 2023 Britain Serbia
Who was Great Britain’s player in the Davis Cup 2023 against Serbia?
Jack Draper represented Great Britain in their Davis Cup 2023 tie against Serbia, playing only his second match in the competition.
What is the significance of Cameron Norrie’s next match for Great Britain in the Davis Cup 2023?
Cameron Norrie’s upcoming match against Novak Djokovic is crucial for Great Britain in the Davis Cup 2023. A win against Djokovic is necessary to keep Britain’s hopes alive for reaching the semi-finals.
What was the outcome of Jack Draper’s match against Miomir Kecmanovic?
Jack Draper lost to Miomir Kecmanovic with scores of 7-6 (7-2), 7-6 (8-6), which led to Great Britain trailing Serbia 1-0 in the best-of-three tie in the Davis Cup 2023.
What challenge does Cameron Norrie face in his match against Novak Djokovic?
Cameron Norrie faces a significant challenge in his match against Novak Djokovic, as he needs to secure a shock win to maintain Great Britain’s chances in the Davis Cup 2023. Djokovic is a 24-time major champion and ranked number one in the world.
What will happen if Cameron Norrie wins his match against Djokovic?
If Cameron Norrie wins against Novak Djokovic, the outcome of the Davis Cup tie between Great Britain and Serbia will be decided by the doubles match. This win would give Great Britain a chance to advance to the semi-finals.
Who will the winner between Britain and Serbia face in the Davis Cup 2023 semi-finals?
The winner between Great Britain and Serbia in the Davis Cup 2023 will face Italy in the semi-finals. Italy secured their spot after a victory led by Jannik Sinner over the Netherlands.
More about Davis Cup 2023 Britain Serbia
- Davis Cup Official Website
- ATP Tour Player Profiles
- Great Britain Tennis News
- Serbia Tennis Federation
- Cameron Norrie’s Career Highlights
- Novak Djokovic’s Career Achievements
- Tennis Live Scores and Updates
5 comments
wow, Britains really got their work cut out for them, Norrie vs Djokovic? that’s gonna be a tough one for sure!
This Davis Cup’s full of surprises, Norrie beating Djokovic would be something else, fingers crossed for Britain!
Gotta say, watching Draper’s game, he’s improving. But Serbia’s team is strong this year. Britains got a uphill battle ahead.
honestly, did we really expect Draper to pull through against Kecmanovic? he’s good but not there yet… still a solid effort tho
Draper’s loss was a bit of a shock, but he’s still young, lot’s of potential there… Serbia’s really bringing their A-game this year.