Jack Draper took charge against Jenson Brooksby, sending over an ace on match point to send the American packing 6-3, 6-1 as the second seed began his clay season with an emphatic win.
The success in west London at Queen’s club was paused for 10 minutes with Draper leading a set and 3-0 to attend to a spectator ill in the stands as 26 Celsius summer temps sparked the usual “heatwave” warning on the island.
Draper got straight back to business as he dispatched Brooksby in 79 minutes to reach the second round comfortably..
He moved into a match against Alexei Popyrin after the Australian defeated compatriot Alexander Vukic 6-2, 6-7 (9), 7-6 (3).
“It feels amazing, there is no place I’d rather be,” the winner said. “It’s tricky coming onto the grass from clay.
“I was hitting the ball a bit late, but that just needs more time on the practice court.
“I’m confident with my tennis. I enjoy playing on this surface. I’ve been putting in the hard work and I’ve got great support.”I’m ready and want to play my best.”
Draper now owns a 4-0 record over the No. 149 Brooksby.
The British winner hopes to join Andy Murray as the only home men’s singles champion here in the Open Era.
