British No. 1 Jack Draper has withdrawn from the US Open because of an arm injury. Doctors diagnosed bone bruising in his left arm after his arrival in New York, where he had not played since Wimbledon. The 23-year-old had struggled in his opening-round match but had suggested the issue would not derail his bid in New York, where he reached the semi-finals last year. Earlier this season he won Indian Wells, his biggest title to date, and had hoped to build on a stronger post-Wimbledon run.

With a scheduled second-round clash against Zizou Bergs due on Thursday, Draper announced his withdrawal. He apologised and said the arm discomfort had become too much and he needed to look after himself. The British player, currently ranked No. 5, is set to drop at least two places and miss out on a chance to improve his standing ahead of the season-ending ATP Finals.

Draper had a morning training session at Flushing Meadows before deciding to head home. A scan last week had indicated a full recovery, but doctors will carry out further checks after renewed discomfort. Former British No. 1 Tim Henman backed the decision, saying bone bruising can affect performance and it is sensible not to aggravate the injury.