Jack Draper celebrated a return to tennis after eight months away with a shoulder injury as he advanced at the 7-6(8), 6-3 ATP Dubai event over Quentin Halys on Monday.
The Briton who once stood fourth in the world but has dropped to 15th, last played a Tour match at the US Open before he was forced to take care of his physical problems.
Draper moved into the second round at the Aviation club as he defeated his French opponent from qualifying.
“It feels so good to be out competing in front of people again,” he said. “He was a tricky opponent.
“It could have been cleaner from my side but I’m proud of how I came out and competed. I hope to keep going from strength to strength.”
The Briton said he craves the thrill of match play after his time away.
“I’ve not had the feel of competing for a long time. It feels normal, doing what I love. I have the adrenalin of winning and losing points.
“I’ve had a lot of down moments over the past eight months.”
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