Jack
Draper admitted that he won’t ask for advice from his tennis idol, Andy Murray,
ahead of the US Open semifinal. The world No. 25 follows in Murray's footsteps
as the first Brit to reach a Grand Slam semifinal since the 3-time Grand Slam
champion did so at the 2017 French Open.
The
22-year-old has had a brilliant run at Flushing Meadows, securing five
consecutive wins without dropping a set and boasting an impressive games
record, winning 71% of the games played (89-36). None of his opponents have
been able to push him to a tiebreak.
"I haven't spoken to Andy," - Jack Draper
The
Londoner has shown his immense potential over the last three seasons, but this
is the first time he’s made it this far in a Grand Slam. At 22, he seems ready
to compete with the best players on Tour and is preparing to challenge world
No. 1, Jannik Sinner.
Draper was
asked if he has sought advice from his mentor and friend, Andy Murray, as he
makes his best run at a major:
"I haven’t spoken to Andy, no. I think he’s enjoying his retirement,
playing lots of golf and spending time with his family. He’s never seen his
family much in the last couple of years, so I think they’re enjoying having him
around.”
"I
have spoken to him a few times in the past about playing big Grand Slam matches
and all these kinds of things. When people you respect give you advice, it’s
obviously always good, but at the end of the day, it’s their experience,"
the Brit No. 1 added. "I think it’s important to live these situations for
yourself because everyone reacts differently. I know Andy’s there for me if I
need him, but I feel pretty relaxed and I’m just taking it one day at a
time."
Jack Draper at 2024 US Open.
Draper has
already secured a spot in the top 20 for the first time in his career, and if
he beats Sinner, he will break into the top 15. Draper now aims to emulate Andy
Murray in his quest for the US Open title, which the former world No. 1 won in
2012.
"Andy
inspired me massively, I tell him all the time when we’re having a serious
conversation that he’s done amazingly well, and he’s definitely inspired so
many players," Draper recently said. "I’ve been able to become good
friends with him (Murray), joke around, and get to know him outside of tennis.
When I have a question," the world No. 25 added.
After
defeating Alex De Minaur in the quarterfinals, Draper also paid tribute to
Murray during the on-court interview: "Andy, I obviously miss him,"
Draper said. "Shout out to him. What an unbelievable career the guy has
had. Icon of the game. I miss him in the locker room. I miss being next to his
stinky shoes and all of his stinky clothes. Andy is a legend. If I have half
the career that he’s had, then I’ll be a happy man."
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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