Jack Draper reveals why he is a much better player in honest confession

James Richardson 01 Oct 2023 11:03 PM

Jack Draper returns the ball

Jack Draper feels the hardships of the 2023 season have made him a far better player.

Draper has confidence in his ability to rebound from an injury-plagued campaign and get back on the path to the top.

The Young Brit believes that he has the game to win the biggest of tournaments.

Draper’s surge up the rankings peaked at No 38 earlier this year but he has made it clear his ambition is to be among its best players not simply in the top 50.

“I feel like this year, although it’s been really difficult, dropping out of the top 100 and all these things,” Draper told a press conference at the Orleans Challenger event.

“I’ve learned so much and I’m a much better player now than I was nine, 10 months ago.

“My goal is not to be a top 100 or a top 50 player. My goal is to be one of the best in the world.

“There are many things that need to fall into place for that, but I think if I keep competing and keep working hard day in and day out and doing all the things I need to do physically and mentally to be at the top of the game, there’s no reason why I don’t have the game and the ability to go all the way in this sport.”

Draper feels that his struggles this season have helped forge him into a better player.

“I’m proud of myself, but it’s definitely been difficult. With this year, having so many injuries and having to come back from them, it definitely builds a lot of strength of character.

“I knew I just had to get myself in a good place physically and mentally to be at the top of my game.”

Draper also believes that this tough season has convinced him that he has the right kind of people around him to help him through the lows.

“The thing with being a tennis player is it’s an individual sport, it’s lonely and stuff, that is where having amazing people around you, who are always looking out for you, always there for you, is so important,” Draper said.

Draper enjoyed a run to the Orleans Challenger final this week, although he wasn’t able to get past Tomas Machac and lift the title.

However, Draper enjoyed his time out on court in his return to action for the first time since his Round of 16 exit at the US Open.