Draper’s solely two losses this yr have come in opposition to Carlos Alcaraz within the Australian Open fourth spherical – the place he needed to retire with harm – and the Qatar Open closing in opposition to Andrey Rublev.
He tailored properly in opposition to Brooksby – an unorthodox participant with quite a lot of photographs to bother most opponents.
Draper was damaged in his first service recreation of the match, with Brooksby focusing on his backhand, however he tailored properly to the American’s tempo.
After lacking a break-back level at 4-2 on Brooksby’s serve, Draper tossed his racquet away in frustration – however that appeared to refocus him and he took his subsequent break alternative to drive the set again on serve.
A smash on the internet allowed Draper to interrupt and serve for the primary set, which he wrapped up with an ace.
He saved the stress on within the second, breaking early earlier than serving out victory in a single hour and 42 minutes.
Spain’s Alcaraz continues his title defence afterward Monday, with Alex de Minaur and Ben Shelton additionally in motion.
