Jack Draper Calls US Open Mixed Doubles 'An Exhibition,' Gets Scolded by Partner Jessica Pegula

While everyone was eager to see Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu in action, the couple that stole the show on the first day of the mixed doubles tournament at the US Open was Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper.

Seeded No. 1 and ironically nicknamed “Dragula”–a blend of their last names (and a nod to the famous vampire)–they not only defeated Alcaraz/Raducanu in straight sets, but also overcame Andreeva/Medvedev, booking a spot in the semifinals.

Draper and Pegula showed good chemistry on court, though where they really hit it off was in the press conference. Despite barely knowing each other before this week, they appeared quite at ease together and gave answers that were both fun and insightful.

Draper’s “Exhibition” Comment

“Obviously it’s a bit of an exhibition format. It’s nice to play with someone, to get to know…” Draper said, before being interrupted by his partner.

As soon as she heard those words, Pegula couldn’t help but smile and scold him, almost like a mother would (not that Pegula could be Draper’s mother, since she’s only seven years older, to be clear). “He shouldn’t be saying that, but that’s okay,” she remarked.

Draper looked a bit confused, unsure what she was referring to. When Pegula whispered the word “exhibition” through laughter, the Brit quickly tried to correct himself.

“No, no, but like, you’re saying to have a bit of fun with it and stuff… I don’t know, I like winning. It’s good to win, right?” Pegula agreed, but clarified: “It’s not an exhibition.”

Draper then admitted: “That’s what I keep hearing. It’s a bit of an exhibition, a bit of fun.”

“I’m enjoying being locked in. I don’t know why it’s a crime,” he added, prompting Pegula to explain: “It’s fine. I was just laughing at the exhibition part.”