NEW YORK — The transformation is impossible to ignore. As Jack Draper steps onto the practice courts at Flushing Meadows, the physical change from the player who captivated audiences here twelve months ago is stark. The lanky frame is now filled out with significant muscle, his shoulders broader, his overall presence more imposing. Twelve months on from his breakout Grand Slam run, the British left-hander returns to the US Open feeling stronger, healthier, and looking decidedly beefed up.
Last year, Draper’s thrilling fourth-round appearance was a story of prodigious talent hampered by a fragile body. He battled through debilitating cramps to defeat Mikhail Kukushkin and then-17th seed Hubert Hurkacz, victories that announced his arrival on the sport’s biggest stages. Yet, his run was ultimately cut short by an injury against Andrey Rublev, a frustratingly familiar ending that had defined the early chapters of his career.
The Grueling Off-Season Overhaul
Determined to rewrite that narrative, Draper embarked on a comprehensive and grueling off-season transformation. The goal was simple yet monumental: to build a body capable of withstanding the brutal physical demands of the ATP Tour. “Last year was a massive learning curve for me,” Draper reflected recently. “I knew that if I wanted to compete with the best consistently, I had to get stronger. I had to be able to last five sets, back-to-back, in tough conditions.”
This commitment translated into countless hours in the gym under the guidance of his fitness team. The focus shifted from mere conditioning to targeted strength and hypertrophy work. His nutrition plan was overhauled to support the intense training, ensuring his body had the fuel to build muscle and recover. The results are clear for all to see:
- Increased Muscle Mass: A noticeable gain of over 10 pounds of muscle.
- Improved Strength Metrics: Significant increases in his lifting numbers across key compound movements.
- Enhanced Recovery: A dedicated focus on sleep and physiotherapy to aid daily recuperation.
The new physique isn’t just for show. It serves a critical purpose: generating more power on his already formidable serve and groundstrokes, and providing the resilience needed for the long, physical rallies his aggressive game style often creates.
A Newfound Confidence on Court
This physical evolution has been accompanied by a surge in confidence. After a challenging period navigating various injuries, Draper has put together a solid 2023 season, claiming his first ATP title in Stuttgart and notching wins over top players like Carlos Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz. He arrives in New York ranked inside the world’s top 30, a career-high standing that reflects his improved consistency.
His coach, former pro James Trotman, has been vocal about the mental benefits of Draper’s physical transformation. “There’s a huge psychological component,” Trotman said. “When you step on court knowing you are one of the fittest, strongest guys out there, it changes how you approach every point. You’re not worried about your body holding up; you’re free to just play tennis. That self-belief is priceless.”
This confidence was on full display during the North American hardcourt swing. In Toronto, he pushed eventual champion Jannik Sinner to a tight third-set tiebreak, showcasing a level of physical endurance that would have been unthinkable a year prior. The days of cramping and mid-match physical breakdowns appear, for now, to be firmly in the rearview mirror.
Embracing the US Open Spotlight
Returning to the US Open is a full-circle moment for Draper. The electric night sessions on Arthur Ashe Stadium, the rowdy crowds on the outer courts—these are the environments where he thrives. Last year’s run cemented his status as a fan favorite, and this year, he returns not as a promising surprise but as a legitimate threat.
The expectations are different now. He is no longer the unknown quantity; he is a seeded player with a target on his back. However, Draper seems to welcome the pressure. “I love it here,” he stated with a smile. “The energy, the noise, it all pushes me to play my best tennis. Last year was amazing, but it felt like just the start. I’m here to show what I can really do.”
His game is perfectly suited to the fast DecoTurf courts. His lefty serve is a weapon that can generate free points, his flat and powerful groundstrokes can penetrate the court, and his improved net game makes him a constant danger. The added physical strength only amplifies these natural advantages, allowing him to hit through the court with even greater authority.
The Road Ahead
The ultimate test, of course, will be a deep run over the fortnight. The men’s draw is as open as it has been in years, and a confident, in-form, and physically robust Draper is a nightmare matchup for any of the top seeds. His journey is a testament to the modern athlete’s understanding that success is built as much in the weight room and the kitchen as it is on the practice court. Jack Draper hasn’t just returned to the US Open; he has arrived reborn, ready to prove that his body is finally as strong as his talent.