Jack Draper advances as Matteo Berrettini retires due to injury at Madrid Open

Jack Draper advanced to the last 16 of the Madrid Open after Matteo Berrettini was forced to retire due to injury following a close first-set tiebreak, which Draper won 7-6(2). Berrettini, who had appeared to struggle with an abdominal or oblique issue from his previous match, was noticeably less energetic and ultimately withdrew after the set, raising doubts about his fitness for the upcoming Italian Open. Draper acknowledged Berrettini's effort and sportsmanship, expressing sympathy given both players' histories with injuries. Draper will next face American Tommy Paul, who leads their head-to-head record and has previously bested Draper in significant matches. Draper expressed optimism about his form and aims to continue improving on clay. The incident highlights Berrettini's ongoing injury woes since his 2021 Wimbledon final appearance.