Draper into Eastbourne Open semis after thrashing Diallo

Britain's Jack Draper is through to the Eastbourne Open semi-finals after beating Canada's Gabriel Diallo 6-1 6-4 on Thursday.

Having endured an injury-ravaged couple of seasons, Draper secured his first victory since March earlier in the tournament, and proved to strong for the six-foot-eight Diallo.

The 24-year-old is working with coach Andy Murray during the grass-court season, with positive preparations for Wimbledon continuing - the Grand Slam beginning on Monday.

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The only wobble came when he dropped serve early in the second set but he finished with statistics of 25 winners and only nine unforced errors and on Friday will play in his first semi-final since Queen's Club last year.

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"It feels amazing," said Draper on BBC Sport. "I love this tournament. Even though I missed Queen's last week and maybe I wouldn't have played here, I'm incredibly happy to be here and to get some matches under my belt is a great feeling.

"I'm really proud of my performance today, I thought it was quite a strong performance against a tough player.

"I think I returned really well and I instilled a lot of doubt in the return games. It was a better performance again today and each performance has gone that way so I'm looking forward to tomorrow."

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Draper revealed on Wednesday that he was troubled by a stomach bug but there were no signs of discomfort against Diallo on another scorching day, and he said of his physical condition: "I feel great.

"It's obviously been a difficult year with a lot of injury setbacks but I'm gaining more confidence in my body. Winning helps, obviously.

"I'm not sure how good of an idea it is to wear all black. I was definitely feeling it yesterday but it's the only kit I've got with me so hopefully it's not hot again tomorrow."

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