Jack Draper is determined to improve on clay as he has his eyes set on the fourth round in Madrid.
The British number one reached the last 16 after Matteo Berrettini withdrew from the match after the first set due to an abdominal injury.
In a topsy-turvy set, Draper recovered from an early break down to take the opening set in a tiebreak.
Speaking about the incident Draper sympathised with Berrettini and sent his well wishes to the Italian, “I think he said his abs were pulling,” Draper compassionately told the ATP website.
“I’ve had injuries in the past. I believe he might have done it in his last match, so credit to him for coming out here and putting on a good first set. I saw his energy was a bit low in general. Matteo is normally a very positive player, so it’s always tough to see a friend having an injury.
“It’s plagued him a lot, myself as well, so I know how he feels. I hope he’s able to come back for Rome and I wish him all the best. He’s a great guy.”
Next up for Draper, the Brit will renew his rivalry with Tommy Paul after the American defeated Karen Khachanov in three sets.
Currently Paul leads the head-to-head 3-2 as Draper bids for a first clay court Masters 1000 quarter-final.
Speaking about his progress on clay Draper is hoping he can become a good clay court player in the future, “I’m feeling better and better,” Draper explained to the ATP website.
“Obviously the more matches I play, the more chances I get to play at the highest level on this surface is key for me. To keep learning, to get better and better. I’m feeling good, honestly. I’m trying to learn which shots to play at the right time and all that kind of thing… I really want to be a really good clay-court player.
“Hopefully I’ll get there. Maybe I won’t, but I’ll give it my best shot.”
