Following his recent title win at the 2024 Stuttgart Open, tennis player Jack Draper unlocked a new milestone by becoming British No.1. However, a few critics claimed the Sutton native achieved this feat via nepotism, a statement that was quickly refuted by compatriot Liam Broady.
Draper defeated Matteo Berrettini in a thrilling final on Sunday at the Stuttgart Open to win his maiden ATP singles title. This saw him accumulate enough points to rise to World No.31, making him the highest-ranked British male player currently on tour.
Journalist questions Draper's credibility, Broady fires back
A tennis journalist going by Pavvy G on Twitter cast doubt on the credibility of Draper's success, saying the 22-year old's rise was boosted by his father, Roger Draper. The elder Draper is a multi-millionaire and was the CEO of the Lawn Tennis Association from 2006 to 2013.
"Jack Draper becomes the youngest GB no 1, he's the son of multi millionaire Roger Draper who was the LTA CEO when Jack was growing up. There were many youngsters more talented then Jack but didn't have the finance or support to continue. This is where the LTA have really failed," wrote Pavvy G on Twitter.
However, Draper's colleague Liam Broady countered the accusation. The doubles specialist stated Draper achieved the success by himself, and was not dependent on his father's name or support.
"Who were the youngsters that were more talented than Jack growing up? As far as I’m aware Jack was one of very the best in his age group from an early age. Doesn’t sit right with me this tweet as he can’t help what his Dad has, works harder than anybody and is incredibly humble," replied Broady.
This led to the journalist saying the LTA mismanaged funds while neglecting talented players from low-income families. Broady was quick to agree with that statement, but added it would be unfair to target Draper.
"I can almost guarantee I speak to more you GB Tennis players then he does. I can also tell you the LTA have mismanaged funds and let's loads of talented players from low income families leave the sport," wrote the journalist.
"I’m not sure about this Pavvy (the journalist) as I’m a players rep for the British men this year. I also train at the national tennis centre. I’m not disagreeing with the point of letting down players from low income backgrounds at all btw, but it’s not right to use Jack to make the point," countered Broady.