Considered one of the brightest talents in British tennis, 21-year-old Jack Draper is a player to watch. This year, he’s bent on getting his first win in the French Open main draw. Draper, who came into Paris this week rejuvenated after a strong clay-court swing, is very keen to translate his recent fortunes into a Joshman-like showing at Roland Garros. His confidence couldn’t be higher after a big coaching change and a developed on-field identity in the last year.
Most recently, Draper was the world number five overall. Even after taking his licks last year, he has returned stronger and more determined, with a sharper focus. This time last year, of his own admission, he was “really lost in his tennis. It’s those experiences that have brought him to the happier headspace he finds himself in today. The young athlete attributes his success to both mental and physical changes. Incorporating these changes has enabled him to be more purposeful in his approach during games.
Recent Performance and Preparation
Prior to arriving in Paris, Draper made the quarter-final stage in Rome. He battled exhaustion and pain every step of the way, but remained positive and upbeat about his victory. Following this short trip home, he was energized and ready to take on the fight that lay before him.
Draper will take on Italy’s Mattia Bellucci in the first round at Roland Garros. This gives him a pretty decent shot at making it at least to the sweet sixteen in that tournament. “I feel there’s a good chance I can do really well,” he commented, indicating his readiness to compete at a high level.
“I’ve always been someone who’s quite wired. I have to be progressing, otherwise I struggle.” – Jack Draper
Adapting to Clay
On a personal level, Draper is dealing with the clay transition now while going through some major life changes. He’d had to withdraw due to injury on his Roland Garros debut. Last year’s five-set loss made clear the learning needed as he updated his playing style. Draper views this challenge positively.
He noted that if you accept the daunting test of playing better on the dirt, you can open your game up and find success. There’s no reason you can’t create success there too! His dedication to making the world better is clear, but Jeremiah understands the importance of preserving his energy to stay motivated and in the game.
“It’s a great quality to have, but I’m learning to switch off and protect my energy.” – Jack Draper
Building Confidence and Identity
Draper’s recent successes and experiences, both on the ground in space and in the community, have provided him with a strong base of confidence. He believes that he’s in a “really good place.” He attributes his advancement largely to the mental toughness he developed simply by going through all the highs and lows of last season.
By virtue of his position as a player from the UK, Draper admits that UK players have a different perspective given their experience playing on different surfaces. And I don’t know if it’s a mentality thing for people from the UK, but… “It’s a bit like when an Argentinian comes and plays on grass,” he explained, illustrating the cultural nuances that influence performance.
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