May 31, 2025 — British tennis star Jack Draper delivered a commanding performance at Roland Garros, defeating Brazil’s João Fonseca 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 to secure his first-ever appearance in the French Open fourth round. The straight-sets victory, achieved in just under two hours, underscores Draper’s growing prowess on clay and his ascent in the global tennis rankings
Dominant Display Against Rising Talent
Facing 18-year-old Fonseca, a rapidly emerging talent who had not dropped a set in the tournament until this match, Draper showcased his experience and tactical acumen. Utilizing deep groundstrokes and strategic drop shots, he effectively neutralized Fonseca’s powerful forehand, maintaining control throughout the match.
Draper’s serve was particularly effective, with a high first-serve percentage that kept Fonseca on the defensive. His ability to vary pace and direction disrupted the Brazilian’s rhythm, leading to a series of unforced errors from the younger player.
Historic Achievement for British Tennis
This victory marks a significant milestone for British tennis, as Draper becomes one of two British men to reach the fourth round at Roland Garros in the Open Era, alongside either Cameron Norrie or Jacob Fearnley, who are set to face each other in the third round . Draper’s progression reflects the depth and potential of British men’s tennis on the international stage.
Season Highlights and Career Progression
Draper’s performance at the French Open is part of an impressive 2025 season. He secured his first ATP Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells, defeating Holger Rune in the final, and reached the final of the Madrid Open, where he was narrowly defeated by Casper Ruud . These achievements have propelled him to a career-high ranking of World No. 5.
His adaptability across surfaces and consistent performance against top-tier opponents have established him as a formidable contender in the men’s circuit.
Next Challenge: Alexander Bublik
In the fourth round, Draper will face Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik, who advanced after a straight-sets victory over Henrique Rocha. Bublik, known for his unpredictable style and powerful serve, presents a unique challenge. However, Draper’s recent form and strategic play position him well for this encounter.
Fonseca’s Promising Future
Despite the loss, João Fonseca’s performance at Roland Garros has been commendable. Reaching the third round of a Grand Slam at just 18 years old highlights his potential. Fonseca has already made history by becoming the youngest Brazilian to win an ATP title in the Open Era and is currently ranked No. 65 in the world.
His experience at the French Open will undoubtedly contribute to his development as he continues to rise in the professional ranks.
As Draper prepares for his fourth-round match, his performance at Roland Garros has not only advanced his Grand Slam ambitions but also signaled a new era for British tennis. With his combination of power, precision, and composure, Draper is poised to make a significant impact in the latter stages of the tournament.
