LONDON — Rising British tennis star Jack Draper has revealed plans to seek advice from Andy Murray as he continues his ascent in the ATP rankings. The 22-year-old also opened up about his unexpected appearance alongside top model Cara Delevingne at a recent high-profile event, calling it a "surreal but incredible experience."
Draper, currently ranked inside the ATP Top 40, has been one of Britain’s brightest prospects since turning professional in 2018. His powerful left-handed game and aggressive baseline play have drawn comparisons to Murray in his early years. Now, Draper is keen to tap into the wisdom of the two-time Wimbledon champion as he looks to break into the sport’s upper echelons.
Plotting Talks with Andy Murray
In an exclusive interview, Draper confirmed his intention to connect with Murray for mentorship. "Andy’s been a massive inspiration for me growing up. I’d love to pick his brain about handling pressure, managing injuries, and the mental side of the game," he said. Murray, who has previously praised Draper’s potential, has been known to mentor younger British players, including Emma Raducanu.
Draper’s career has been hampered by injuries, including a shoulder issue that sidelined him for part of 2023. He believes Murray’s experience overcoming setbacks could be invaluable. "He’s been through it all—slams, Olympics, comebacks. That’s the kind of insight I need right now."
Key Areas Draper Wants to Discuss:
- Managing injuries and longevity in the sport
- Handling the spotlight as a British hopeful
- Preparing for Grand Slam tournaments
- Transitioning from Challenger to ATP Tour success
Unexpected Run-In with Cara Delevingne
Beyond tennis, Draper made headlines when he appeared alongside supermodel Cara Delevingne at a London Fashion Week afterparty. The pair were photographed chatting, sparking rumors of a friendship. Draper laughed off speculation but admitted the encounter was memorable. "She’s obviously a huge name, and it was pretty surreal to be in that environment. But she was really down-to-earth—we just talked about sports and life."
The 22-year-old, who has been vocal about balancing his professional career with personal growth, said the experience opened his eyes to life beyond tennis. "It’s important to have those moments where you step out of the bubble and see different perspectives."
Looking Ahead: 2024 Season Goals
Draper’s immediate focus remains on climbing the rankings and making deeper runs at majors. After reaching the fourth round of the US Open in 2023, he’s targeting a seeded position at Wimbledon this year. "I want to be competing in the second week of Slams consistently. That’s the next step."
His coach, James Trotman, has emphasized improving his serve and movement. Draper added, "I’ve been working hard on my fitness. The margins at the top are so small—every percent counts."
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
With a blend of raw talent and a willingness to learn from legends like Murray, Draper is poised for a breakthrough. His off-court charisma and growing profile suggest he could become one of tennis’s most marketable stars. As he put it, "I’m just getting started. The best is yet to come."
Fans will be watching closely as Draper navigates the 2024 season, starting with the Australian Open. Whether on the court or rubbing shoulders with A-listers, the young Brit is determined to make his mark.