Jack Draper’s Training Block with Carlos Alcaraz: A Strategic Move for 2025 Success
Jack Draper’s decision to spend part of his pre-season training alongside Carlos Alcaraz at the Juan Carlos Ferrero Academy in Alicante marks a significant step in his development as he aims to break into the top 10 of the ATP rankings. This move, recommended by prominent tennis insiders, underscores the importance of high-quality, intensive preparation—particularly outside the cold and often suboptimal conditions of the UK winter. With temperatures plummeting below freezing, Draper’s choice to seek training in Spain aligns with advice from experts like Andy Murray’s former coach, Mark Petchey, and former world No. 1 Andy Roddick, both of whom emphasize the value of conditioning in hot and humid environments.
A Breakthrough Season for Draper
2024 has been a transformative year for Draper. The British No. 1 captured two ATP titles, made a deep run to the semi-finals of the US Open, and broke into the world’s top 15. These achievements are remarkable, especially considering his struggles with injuries in previous seasons. His success at prestigious tournaments, including a title win in Stuttgart and a significant victory at the Vienna Open, has established him as one of the most promising young talents in the game. Notably, Draper also managed to defeat Carlos Alcaraz at Queen’s Club, a victory that underscored his ability to compete with the world’s best.
Learning from the Best: Training with Alcaraz and Ferrero
The upcoming training block in Alicante presents Draper with a unique opportunity. By working closely with Carlos Alcaraz—already a four-time Grand Slam champion—and under the guidance of Juan Carlos Ferrero, Draper stands to gain invaluable insights into both the physical and mental aspects of high-level tennis. Ferrero, a former world No. 1 and French Open champion, has played a pivotal role in Alcaraz’s rise, helping him refine his game and develop the resilience required to succeed on the biggest stages.
Draper’s coach, James Trotman, highlighted the significance of this opportunity, stating, “It’s incredibly important to spend time with the best players, experience that on a daily basis.” Indeed, training alongside Alcaraz will expose Draper to the intensity and discipline required to maintain a top-10 ranking and contend for major titles. This experience is not just about physical training; it’s also about adopting the mindset of a champion. Observing Alcaraz’s work ethic, tactical approach, and on-court demeanor will provide Draper with a roadmap for his own aspirations.
The Competitive Edge
This collaboration is not a one-sided affair. While Draper will undoubtedly benefit from Alcaraz’s experience and Ferrero’s coaching, the Spanish star also stands to gain. Draper’s rise through the ranks has been marked by his powerful serve, aggressive baseline play, and improving mental toughness—qualities that make him a formidable practice partner. Their training sessions will likely be highly competitive, pushing both players to refine their games ahead of the 2025 season.
There’s also an element of strategic intrigue. As Draper trains alongside one of his main rivals, there’s a mutual exchange of information and tactics. Alcaraz might glean insights into Draper’s strengths and weaknesses, but Draper, too, will gain a deeper understanding of Alcaraz’s game. This dynamic adds an interesting layer to their future encounters on the ATP Tour.
Preparing for the Australian Open
One of the key reasons for Draper’s decision to train in Spain is the need to prepare for the extreme conditions of the Australian Open. Unlike the UK, where winter temperatures can drop below freezing, Alicante offers a warm, humid environment more akin to what players will face in Melbourne. Both Petchey and Roddick have stressed the importance of acclimating to such conditions, noting that physical endurance and mental toughness are crucial in the grueling heat of the Australian summer. Draper’s choice to train in Spain reflects a strategic commitment to maximizing his chances at the year’s first Grand Slam.
The Australian Open has traditionally been a challenging tournament for many players, not just because of the heat but also due to the intensity of competition. For Draper, who has yet to make a deep run in Melbourne, this pre-season preparation could be a game-changer. By simulating match conditions and pushing his limits in a demanding environment, he’ll arrive at the tournament better equipped to handle the physical and mental challenges.
A Focused Off-Season
With Great Britain not qualifying for the Davis Cup Finals, Draper has the advantage of an extended off-season. This additional time allows him to focus on specific areas of his game that need improvement. His coach, James Trotman, has been instrumental in guiding Draper’s comeback from injury and helping him reach a career-high ranking. Together, they’ll use this period to fine-tune his skills, enhance his fitness, and develop strategies for facing the world’s top players.
Draper’s goals for 2025 are clear: break into the top 10 and make a deep run at a Grand Slam. To achieve these objectives, he’ll need to build on the momentum of his breakthrough season and continue evolving his game. Training with Alcaraz, one of the most talented and hardworking players on the tour, provides an ideal platform for this growth.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
Jack Draper’s decision to train with Carlos Alcaraz in Spain is more than just a logistical move—it’s a statement of intent. By seeking out the best training conditions and surrounding himself with elite players and coaches, Draper is positioning himself for success in 2025. His journey from a promising talent to a top-15 player has been marked by resilience, hard work, and a willingness to learn. This upcoming training block is another step in that journey, offering him the tools and experiences he needs to take his game to the next level.
As Draper prepares for the challenges ahead, his collaboration with Alcaraz symbolizes the next chapter in his ascent. It’s a story of ambition, rivalry, and the relentless pursuit of greatness—one that fans will be watching closely as the new season unfolds.