Draper: "Pro tennis is a tough sport for a young player, we don't have many friends."

Jack Draper has confirmed the strong bond of friendship that binds him to Jannik Sinner, whom he faces this Friday in the US Open semi-finals. The Briton also explained that this kind of friendship is invaluable, a mutual support that is truly life-saving in the peculiar context of the ATP Tour, where it's not always easy to navigate as a young player.

Jack Draper: "Yes, we've always kept in touch since I've been on the ATP Tour for the last two years. Jannik is a good friend of mine, someone I'm very close to. We send each other messages in good times and bad.

It's a tough sport to play when you're young. You're on the road, you're doing a very intense sport, both physically and emotionally. It's difficult because we don't have many friends.

It's really important to have the support of someone who's been through it all too. I have a lot of respect for Jannik. It was great to play doubles with him in Montreal (early August). I think we played great doubles together. I'd never won a doubles match on the circuit. Playing with the world number one was incredible.

I learned a lot about doubles and had a lot of fun with him. It was really nice to be able to step onto the court with him. I'm sure we'll keep in touch."