Jack Draper stepped into Andy Murray’s shoes at Wimbledon and immediately became embroiled in one of the Scot’s trademark late-night five-set marathons.
The new British number one’s match with Elias Ymer was upgraded to Centre Court following two-time champion Murray’s withdrawal from the singles.
Yet with the roof shutting and the clock clicking past 9pm, it could have easily been Murray serving up the late-night drama.
Draper had recovered from dropping the first set against the Swedish qualifier to lead 2-1.
But lapses in concentration allowed Ymer, ranked a lowly 205 in the world, to bring the match level with Draper angrily hitting his racket against the ground.
But Draper gathered himself, regained his composure and eventually came through 3-6 6-3 6-3 4-6 6-3 in three hours and 18 minutes.
Jack Draper, a hero on Centre Court
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 2, 2024
The top ranked British player takes out a classic in five sets against Elias Ymer 3-6, 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/75abTcRMoO
It was a memorable way to secure a first win on Centre Court, and Draper told the crowd: “I really enjoyed it. You probably wanted Andy out here but you were stuck with me instead.”
Two weeks ago Draper overtook Cameron Norrie – whom he will face in the second round on Thursday – as Britain’s top-ranked male.
“What an honour, honestly, with all the number ones who came before me,” he added. “Tim (Henman), Andy, Cam. But I wouldn’t be here without Andy. What a competitor, what a champion. Thank you very much.”