Jack Draper has established himself as one of the leading British tennis players. Draper’s career has been on the rise, steadily but surely, ever since he made his debut. His idol, Sir Andy Murray, played a huge role in it as well. The two share an incredible bond off the court, and they are close enough for Jack to give Andy a nickname and get away with it too.
Draper is currently playing in the UTS Grand Finals in London. The young Brit is on a brilliant run, as he defeated Alexander Bublik and Holger Rune back-to-back. He locked horns with Gael Monfils too, but the Frenchman withdrew from the match after rolling his ankle.
While Draper has enjoyed the action on court, he got roped into a fun little interview when he was not playing. Murray came up in the conversation, and Draper’s answer did not disappoint at all.
@andy_murray 😹? pic.twitter.com/fzvdH9zk5n
— Tennis Weekly Podcast (@tennisweeklypod) December 16, 2023
The question posed to Jack was a simple one: what would Murray’s nickname be if he had one? Draper initially went with a cat, adding that he had a few lives. He eventually settled on a well-known superstar, thanks to Andy’s metal hip.
“He’s like a cat; he’s got a few different lives. Obviously, he’s playing with a metal hip, Andy Murray; I don’t know. Iron Man, I think we’ll stick with that,” said the young Brit.
Jack Draper and Andy Murray have forged a lovely friendship over the years. Murray has been an inspirational figure throughout his career; it is no wonder he inspired Jack as well.
How Jack Draper’s relationship with Andy Murray has evolved
When Murray won the Wimbledon championship in 2013, Draper was only 11 years old at the time. A decade later, he calls the Scot his good friend.
Both of them only ever had good things to say about each other. Draper has been open in his admiration for Andy, and the Wimbledon champion has also returned the compliments. The young Brit opened up about Murray and how their relationship has evolved.
Two late additions to the draw at Monte Carlo, Andy Murray and Jack Draper practicing together, only weeks after they faced off at Indian Wells. The Scot’s first time here since 2017, and Draper’s debut at the tournament. pic.twitter.com/EnQuuGLoqU
— Line Call Podcast (@LineCallPod) April 7, 2023
“During lockdown, I became a better player and I was able to practice with him more. From there, we’ve practiced together loads. I’d like to say he’s a good friend,” said Draper (via ATP Tour).
From idolizing Andy to representing Great Britain at the Davis Cup, Jack Draper has come a long way. The 22-year-old will hope to improve his performance when the new season rolls around.