Draper reflected on his performances at Flushing Meadows with a deep sense of pride and vowed to use the experience to continue improving.

"I think I just need to keep on learning, keep growing, keep having situations like today and how am I going to do it different next time," Draper said.

"I think it is, honestly, just a matter of time.

"It's experiences, doing all the right things, training consistently, and over time you progress and you get stronger and better."

Reigning Australian Open champion Sinner, who will bid for a second major title on Sunday, backed his good friend to challenge for the sport's biggest prizes.

"I'm quite sure because I know that he's potentially winning some big titles in the future," the Italian said.

"He's a tough player to play against, he has a great attitude on the court, he's working hard.

"These are all things together which is great to see."