"It was frustrating to see a young player out there achieving amazing things": Jack Draper admits envy in watching Carlos Alcaraz lift Wimbledon title

Rising British tennis star Jack Draper has admitted to being inspired by ATP colleague Carlos Alcaraz, following the young Spaniard's amazing 2023 season that saw him lift the Wimbledon title.

Alcaraz defeated Novak Djokovic to claim his maiden Wimbledon title this summer, winning his second overall major in a season that also saw him hold the World No.1 ranking. The 20-year old has announced his intentions on the ATP tour, and is primed to leave his mark in the history books.

Draper motivated by his young peers rise to stardom

Although Draper was unable to compete at his home Grand Slam due to injury, the 21-year old revealed he felt slightly envious of Alcaraz as he took on Djokovic in the Wimbledon final. Nonetheless, he insisted he was pleased to see the Spaniard's progress, alongside other young rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Holger Rune.

Read also

Confusion as Aryna Sabalenka now crowned ITF World Champion after Iga Swiatek previously confirmed as Women's Singles winner

"There’s two sides to it," admitted Draper. "I am happy for them because they are great young players and I understand how much you have to put into the sport, especially at an early age. I have huge respect and admiration for what they are doing. On the other side I remember when I was injured with my shoulder and I was watching Carlos Alcaraz play Djokovic in the Wimbledon final and it was frustrating to see a young player out there achieving amazing things, because of the competitor I am."

Read also

Former coach of Emma Raducanu wants to work with four WTA players including Coco Gauff and Paula Badosa