Jack Draper Eyes Tennis Elite After Stuttgart Victory

Jack Draper, the new British men’s number one, feels his maiden ATP title win has bolstered his confidence in aiming for the top echelons of tennis. The 22-year-old clinched victory at the Stuttgart Open, marking a significant milestone in a week where he ascended to the highest-ranked position among his compatriots. Currently ranked 31st globally, Jack Draper is the youngest British men’s number one since Andy Murray in 2009.

Reflecting on his achievement after defeating Matteo Berrettini, Draper expressed gratitude for Murray’s endorsement of his potential to reach the pinnacle of world tennis. He described it as an honor to lead the British rankings but admitted he hadn’t dwelled on it previously. “I aim to establish myself among the world’s elite players,” Draper emphasized during a press conference at Queen’s Club, London, on Monday.

Despite setbacks from injury and fitness challenges, including a shoulder issue that sidelined him last year during the British grass-court season, Draper has always been touted for his exceptional talent. “Winning this title reinforces my belief in what I can accomplish,” Draper remarked, noting previous near-misses in ATP finals in Sofia and Adelaide. He acknowledged that his Stuttgart triumph had transformed his mindset and aspirations in the sport.

Draper had little time to savor his success, swiftly returning to London for practice at Queen’s Club. He anticipates competing on home soil for the first time as British number one when he faces Argentina’s Mariano Navone in the tournament’s opening round on Tuesday. “Jack’s ambitions go beyond being British number one,” asserted former world number one Murray, projecting Draper’s potential to rise to the highest ranks in global tennis.