Should Draper make his comeback in January, he won’t be eligible for a protected ranking, given that this privilege is reserved solely for players sidelined for a minimum of six months to keep their position prior to departure.
Sitting at world number 155 at present, he will either need invitations through wildcards or must participate in qualifying rounds to secure a spot in Grand Slams and ATP Tour tournaments.
Nevertheless, these logistical hurdles will be of little concern to him, provided he can compete without restriction and free from intense discomfort.
Last June, Draper reached a career-high ranking of world number four, following his maiden Masters 1000 victory in Indian Wells and a second-place finish at the Madrid tournament.
“During the previous summer, all my hard work and commitment to the game were finally bearing fruit,” Draper noted.
“Everything was falling into place, and the future looked bright. But a complex physical setback created major obstacles, and I have been fighting hard ever since to regain my previous form on the court.
“Dealing with such significant transitions, difficulties, and physical suffering has fostered tremendous personal growth, though it has also left me feeling quite exhausted.”
In order to facilitate his rehabilitation, Draper recently spent some time vacationing with friends, seeking a psychological reprieve from tennis.
Over the coming weeks, he is slated to slowly resume practice sessions while his coaching and medical staff attempt to identify the primary factors behind his injury.
