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Jack Draper returns from injury and reveals big ambitions for Great Britain at United Cup

Originally posted on HITC | By Liam McMillen | Last updated Dec 9, 2025 8:53 AM ET

Jack Draper is finally set to return at the United Cup, marking his first appearance since pulling out of the US Open.

At long last, Jack Draper is set to return to the court at the United Cup, marking his first appearance since withdrawing from the US Open. An arm injury cut short what had been a breakthrough season, halting his rise just after he had established himself firmly inside the ATP’s top five.

Draper climbed to a career-high world No. 4 following a landmark title run at Indian Wells and a final at the Madrid Open. Now back in action, the 23-year-old believes Great Britain can make a serious push at the United Cup — and he’s not shy about their chances.

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Jack Draper reveals his high hopes for Great Britain at the United Cup

Speaking in a TikTok video for the tournament, Draper tackled several topics surrounding the mixed-team event. He named Emma Raducanu as his “favourite British tennis player” and highlighted the impact Tim Henman will have as captain.

“I think Tim Henman being captain… he’s going to bring a lot of good energy, he’s going to be very vocal, I can imagine. I’m just looking forward to being around Tim,” Draper said.

Henman will lead the British team, while Lleyton Hewitt, Stan Wawrinka and Tallon Griekspoor are among the other national captains in the competition. The 2026 event also marks the first time Draper and Raducanu will play the United Cup since its inception in 2023.

Great Britain’s record at the United Cup

Great Britain have yet to truly break through at the event, though they have twice reached the quarter-finals. In the inaugural year, a team led by Cameron Norrie and Harriet Dart fell in the last eight to eventual champions the United States.

In 2024, the British side finished bottom of a challenging group featuring Australia and the United States. Their most recent appearance once again ended in the quarter-finals, this time losing to a strong Poland team spearheaded by Hubert Hurkacz and Iga Świątek.

With Draper back, Raducanu healthy, and Henman at the helm, Great Britain will hope 2026 is the year they finally make a deep United Cup run.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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