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.”
