Jack Draper, the rising star of British tennis, is on the verge of achieving a career milestone as he aims to break into the ATP Top 10 in 2025. Following a remarkable 2024 season that saw him win his first two ATP Tour titles and make a deep run to the US Open semi-finals, Draper has announced plans to elevate his game further with a bold move: offseason training with world No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz at the Spaniard’s base.
This decision marks a pivotal moment for Draper, who concluded the year ranked world No. 15 and solidified his position as Britain’s No. 1 male player. With the top ten now within reach, the 22-year-old is leaving no stone unturned in his quest to join the elite ranks of men’s tennis.
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### **A Breakthrough Year for Draper**
The past year has been nothing short of transformative for Draper. Claiming titles in Adelaide and Eastbourne, along with a semi-final appearance at the US Open, underscored his rapid development. His run in New York was particularly notable, as it showcased his ability to compete with—and beat—top players on the sport’s biggest stages.
One highlight of his season came at Queen’s Club in June, where Draper defeated Alcaraz on grass in an impressive display of power and precision. This victory not only boosted his confidence but also signaled to the tennis world that Draper could hold his own against the very best.
Despite these successes, Draper’s journey to the top hasn’t been without challenges. His semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner at the US Open exposed a lingering issue: his physical conditioning in demanding matches, particularly in hot and humid conditions. This has become a focal point in his development, as he aims to turn a perceived weakness into a strength.
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### **The Alcaraz Partnership: A Strategic Move**
Draper’s decision to train with Alcaraz during the offseason is both pragmatic and ambitious. The collaboration will allow Draper to spar with one of the most versatile and physically imposing players on tour. For Alcaraz, the arrangement provides an opportunity to face a top-tier server—a skill set he’ll need to master as he continues to contend with rivals like Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, both of whom have elevated their serving games.
For Draper, the warm-weather conditions in Spain present an ideal environment to address his endurance issues. Training alongside Alcaraz, who is renowned for his physical fitness and relentless playing style, could be instrumental in preparing Draper for the grueling matches awaiting him at the Australian Open in January.
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### **Mental and Physical Growth: Draper’s Key Focus**
In addition to physical preparation, Draper has identified the mental side of the game as a critical area for improvement. Despite his rigorous training regimen, the Brit acknowledges that mental fatigue has played a role in some of his high-profile defeats.
“I push my body to the limit all the time in training and in my mindset,” Draper said in a recent interview. “I don’t have to worry about not doing enough because I am. But a lot of the issues I have are mental. I need to understand myself better to compete at the highest levels.”
Draper is working with his team to enhance his mental resilience, incorporating techniques such as breathing exercises and mindfulness practices. These tools, he hopes, will help him manage the stress and anxiety that accompany intense matches.
“I think working on the mental side of the game is huge,” Draper added. “I’m constantly working on my breathing and finding ways to improve. It’s all part of understanding what works for me.”
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### **Expert Insights: Patience Is Key**
Former British No. 1 Tim Henman, now a Sky Sports analyst, believes that Draper’s struggles with endurance are rooted more in mental than physical challenges. Henman emphasized that Draper is still in the early stages of his career and urged patience as he navigates the demands of professional tennis.
“Jack’s issues often appear physical, but for me, they’re more mental,” Henman explained. “He hasn’t played too many long five-set matches, and the stress and anxiety of those moments can take a toll. But he’s moving in the right direction—his game is getting stronger, and he’s improving physically.”
Henman also highlighted Draper’s steady climb up the rankings as a sign of his potential. “Finishing the year in the top 20 is a fantastic achievement, and it gives him a great platform to build on. The key is focusing on the process. If he continues to do that, the results will follow.”
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### **Setting Sights on 2025**
Draper’s offseason plans reflect his determination to build on a stellar 2024. Training with Alcaraz signals his intention to push the boundaries of his game, both physically and mentally. With the right preparation, Draper could not only make his long-awaited Top 10 debut but also establish himself as a serious contender for major titles.
As he heads into the new season, Draper’s trajectory suggests he is poised for even greater accomplishments. With the support of a strong team and the experience of competing at the highest levels, the young Brit is becoming a player to watch in 2025—and perhaps, a future Grand Slam champion.
For now, the focus is clear: preparation, persistence, and a mindset that embraces the challenges ahead. As Draper himself puts it, “I’m not the finished article yet, but I’ll figure it out. I’m ready to work, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”