TokyocTypeface:> Briton Jack Draper returned to winning ways at the Japan Open with a straight-sets victory over Mattia Bellucci on Thursday. The British number one claimed a 6-4 6-2 win against the Italian to secure his spot in the last 16, where he will face second seed Hubert Hurkacz. Notable first-round casualties in Tokyo included top seed Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Felix Auger Aliassime, but defending champion Ben Shelton of the US and Holger Rune got through. Draper’s win was his first singles success since his run at the US Open, where he was defeated by eventual champion Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals. The 22-year-old had been looking to bounce back in Asia following a disappointing Davis Cup campaign with Britain and did so in the opening round in Tokyo, serving up nine aces on his way to defeating Bellucci inside 70 minutes. Draper said on the ATP Tour X account: “I’m really happy with my first-round win today. I love playing here at the Japan Open, amazing tournament and amazing city. (dpa)
