In the past year, Draper has emerged as a formidable contender in the tennis world, setting his sights on major championships in 2025.
His versatile skill set has made him a strong competitor on various surfaces, positioning him as a potential threat at the French Open.
Reaching the finals of the Madrid Open showcased his development, and his performances in Paris have continued that trend.
In matches against Italy’s Mattia Bellucci and experienced French player Gael Monfils, Draper displayed the patience necessary for victory. This approach was also evident in his encounter with Fonseca, where he strategically waited for the right moments to strike, establishing dominance early on.
Draper’s aggressive forehand, combined with its speed and spin, posed a significant challenge for Fonseca, allowing the Brit to secure an early double break.
A double fault at 30-30 during the eighth game briefly gave Fonseca a glimmer of hope, but Draper quickly regained focus, using his first serve effectively to clinch the first set in just 29 minutes.
As the second set progressed, momentum appeared to shift slightly towards Fonseca, bolstered by crowd support. Yet, Draper maintained his composure, delivering solid service games to stifle any rising hopes.
Breaking for a 4-3 lead and saving two break points in the 10th game proved pivotal, enabling Draper to take a two-set lead.
Entering the third set, Draper remained strategic, combining deep returns with clever drop shots, leading him to a well-earned victory.