Concerning Signs for Ben Shelton As Jack Draper Delivers a Reality Check During DC Open Practice

Ben Shelton’s preparations for the 2026 Mubadala DC Open have come under the microscope ahead of his highly anticipated campaign. After his first-round exit at Wimbledon, Shelton will look to bounce back strongly at the ATP 500 event on home soil, but his latest practice session with Jack Draper has raised concerns about his form ahead of his opening match.

Ben Shelton Struggles Against Jack Draper in DC Open Practice

Draper’s progress has repeatedly been derailed by injuries over the past few seasons, preventing him from building momentum on tour. After missing almost the entire clay-court season due to a knee injury, the Brit made a promising comeback on grass by reaching the semifinals of the Eastbourne Open under the guidance of his new coach, Andy Murray.

However, his injury woes resurfaced when an arm injury forced him to withdraw from Wimbledon. The Brit, who has slipped to world No. 147, has since accepted a wildcard for the DC Open and has been preparing for his return under Murray’s watchful eye.

Draper received an encouraging boost ahead of his opening match, defeating No. 2 seed Ben Shelton 6-1 in a practice session at the venue. Tennis reporter Christian’s Court revealed that Murray was pleased with the Brit’s dominant display.

On the other hand, the reporter flagged concerns about Shelton’s forehand looking below its usual standard.

“Draper just won a practice set 6-1 vs Shelton. Jack’s left arm and serve looked good; Coach Murray’s happy with his return too. Shelton’s FH has been very off though. Something to look out for next week,” the post read.

Shelton was originally scheduled to face fellow American Ethan Quinn in the first round of the DC Open. However, Quinn was forced to withdraw from the event due to a right metatarsal injury. The world No. 6 will now face either a qualifier or a lucky loser in his opening match.

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Draper, meanwhile, will lock horns with Alex Michelsen in the first round of the ATP 500 event, marking their first tour-level encounter. If Draper emerges victorious, he will face the winner of the match between No. 5 seed Learner Tien and Adrian Mannarino in the second round.

Placed in opposite halves of the draw, Ben Shelton and Jack Draper will both need to reach the final to set up a blockbuster showdown at the DC Open. Their only previous meeting took place at the 2025 Indian Wells Masters, where Draper secured a 6-4, 7-5 victory.