ROME — British number one Jack Draper has admitted that short turnarounds between tournaments are "becoming normal" for him after arriving at the Italian Open just days after competing in the Madrid Open final. The 22-year-old, who reached his first ATP Masters 1000 final in Madrid, said he is "feeling good" despite the quick transition to Rome.
Draper’s breakthrough run in Madrid, where he defeated top players including Andrey Rublev and Jiri Lehecka, marked a significant milestone in his career. However, the physical and mental demands of back-to-back tournaments at the highest level present a new challenge for the rising star. "It’s part of the job," Draper said. "You have to adapt and recover quickly."
The Madrid Breakthrough
Draper’s performance in Madrid was a testament to his growing confidence and improved fitness. After struggling with injuries in 2023, the young Brit has shown remarkable resilience this season, climbing to a career-high ranking of No. 35. His aggressive baseline game and powerful serve have made him a formidable opponent on clay.
Key highlights from his Madrid campaign include:
- Defeating Rublev in straight sets in the quarterfinals
- Overcoming Lehecka in a thrilling three-set semifinal
- Pushing world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz to the limit in the final
Despite falling short in the final, Draper took pride in his performance. "It was an amazing experience," he said. "Playing in front of that crowd against someone like Carlos was special."
Adjusting to Quick Turnarounds
With only three days between the Madrid final and his first-round match in Rome, Draper acknowledged the challenges of rapid recovery. "It’s tough, but it’s something I’m getting used to," he admitted. "The schedule is packed, especially during the clay swing."
To manage fatigue, Draper has relied on his team’s support, including physiotherapy and tailored training sessions. "Recovery is key," he emphasized. "I’ve learned to listen to my body and not push too hard when I don’t need to."
The Physical Toll
Playing consecutive Masters 1000 events on clay is notoriously grueling. The surface demands longer rallies and places additional stress on the body. Draper, who has previously struggled with muscle injuries, is taking a cautious approach. "I’m still learning how to peak at the right times," he said.
Looking Ahead to Rome
Draper faces a tough opening match in Rome against either a qualifier or a seasoned clay-court specialist. However, his recent form suggests he could make another deep run. "I’m here to compete," he said. "Every match is an opportunity to improve."
The Italian Open serves as a crucial warm-up for the French Open, where Draper aims to surpass his second-round appearance from 2023. With his confidence at an all-time high, he is optimistic about his prospects. "I believe in my game," he stated. "I just need to stay healthy and keep building."
The Bigger Picture
Draper’s rapid rise has drawn comparisons to fellow Brit Andy Murray, who also excelled in his early 20s. While Draper is flattered by the comparisons, he is focused on carving his own path. "Andy’s a legend, but I’m just trying to be the best version of myself," he said.
With the grass-court season approaching, Draper’s adaptability will be tested further. His ability to transition from clay to grass—a surface where he has historically performed well—could define his season. "I love playing on grass," he said. "It’s where I feel most at home."
For now, though, Draper’s focus remains on Rome. "I’m taking it one match at a time," he said. "The goal is to keep improving and see how far I can go."
As short turnarounds become a regular part of his schedule, Draper’s resilience and maturity suggest he is ready for the challenges ahead. With a strong team behind him and a growing belief in his abilities, the future looks bright for British tennis’ newest star.