‘One of my biggest inspirations’ – Draper thanks Murray for joining coaching team
Video credit: SNTV
The 24-year-old, who was absent at the Australian Open, Roland-Garros and Wimbledon, will now aim to rebuild momentum on the North American hard-court swing with Murray by his side as he faces Alex Michelsen in the first round on Monday.Draper, who added Murray to his coaching team before his grass-court campaign at Eastbourne, says the two-time Wimbledon champion has brought a calming presence during one of the most difficult periods of his career.”Andy’s been an incredible part of my team so far,” Draper told Sky Sports having accepted a wildcard for the Washington tournament. “He’s brought a real calmness. He’s got great energy about him.
“I think people are seeing it more now after he’s retired but he’s incredibly playful, he always has a lot of fun.
“But he’s great because he really believes in me and my tennis and believes that I can go a long, long way in the sport.
Draper values Murray’s role as a mentor and coach
Image credit: Getty Images
“To have one of the biggest idols think like that is something to really be proud of and gives me confidence. So yeah, we’re on a journey together and I think there’s so many improvements in my game and so much to come.”
Draper’s return comes after a frustrating 12 months which have been disrupted by a recurring left-arm injury, as well as knee and shoulder problems.
He faces a qualifying battle to reach this year’s US Open after the 2024 semi-finalist missed out on direct entry into the main draw.
Draper withdrew from Wimbledon before his first-round match against Taylor Fritz after the arm issue resurfaced.
The former British No. 1 said missing the SW19 tournament was difficult but believes he is now in a much better place physically and mentally.
‘I’m so into that’ – McEnroe excited for Draper-Murray partnership
Video credit: TNT Sports
“It was really difficult to miss Wimbledon but it was the right decision,” Draper added.
“I’ve had an incredibly challenging 12 months, a lot of adversity, a lot of problem-solving, a lot of pain, and trying to understand that and come through it.
“I’ve never had a long-term injury before, so I feel much better than I ever have in the last year. I feel really good physically.
“I was actually saying to the guys that I feel emotionally and mentally, for a long time, like I’ve been quite tired because of the process, but I’m starting to get my energy back.
“To be honest, I feel really, really good, and I’m very proud of myself, the way I’m feeling. So happy to be here.”
Draper also explained the complexity of the injury which has affected his ability to compete consistently, particularly given the importance of his serve.
“The injury I had in my arm, it’s a very complex injury,” he said. “There are a lot of different things to think about with bone stress, especially in a sport where I need to hit my serve at 130 miles an hour.
“That’s my weapon, I guess, my arm. So when that’s causing me a lot of discomfort, it’s hard to do what you want to do and to enjoy it as well.
“It’s just problem-solving in ways. How can I change things? How can I adjust my rackets, my equipment? How can I recover better? How can I just do everything I can to get better?”
Add TNT Sports as a preferred source here to enjoy more content like this.Download the TNT Sports app on iPhone and Android.You can enjoy top tennis action on TNT Sports and HBO Max
