‘Wimbledon is a very special place for me’: Jack Draper On His Wimbledon 2023 Predictions

1 year ago

The tennis player also shares his tips for enjoying the championship

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While he may not be playing at Wimbledon this year due to an injury, Jack Draper is part of a new generation of promising tennis players – making him one to watch when he heads back onto the courts for next month’s US Open. We caught up with Jack during his downtime to see what he’s been up to, his training essentials and predications for this year’s Wimbledon tournament.

Jack Draper On His Wimbledon 2023 Predictions

Jack Draper

Hi Jack, thanks for joining us today! How’s life going right now?

Thank you for having me. Obviously I’m gutted to be missing out on Wimbledon this year, but I’m feeling good, my recovery is going well and I’m looking forward to competing again soon.

We’re now in the thick of the 2023 Wimbledon Championships. We know you’re not playing at Wimbledon this year, but could you talk us through how you’d usually prepare for the tournament?

In 2022, I prepared with a couple of weeks of training on the grass, followed by two build-up tournaments, Queen’s and Eastbourne. In the days leading up to Wimbledon, there is so much media and hype surrounding the tournament – I do my best to limit distractions, surround myself with my inner circle and try to stop looking at my phone.

And do you have any pre-match rituals?

I listen to music before I head onto court and also play cards with my team, which is usually a good way to pass the time on match days.

What are your top tips for staying focused during a game?

I try to focus on what I can control and not get frustrated by all the factors outside my control (of which there are many) that can influence a tennis match.

Jack Draper with children on tennis court

What does Wimbledon mean to you?

As a British tennis player, it’s the tournament I always dreamt of playing. I was lucky enough to watch Andy [Murray] win Wimbledon live on Centre Court in 2013, I made the finals of Junior Wimbledon in 2018 and I played Novak Djokovic on Centre Court in 2021. Not only do I love the tradition and history of Wimbledon, but personally, I have already made memories as both a spectator and player which I will remember forever. Wimbledon is a very special place for me.

Speaking of, do you have any predictions for Wimbledon 2023?

Tough question. I think the men’s will be between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, and for the women’s, I wouldn’t say there is a clear favourite, but Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Świątek look to be playing well.

Can you give us an insider’s tip to enjoying Wimbledon?

Court 12 and Court 3 are non-ticketed courts, where there is usually an incredible atmosphere. I have been lucky enough to play on both courts a few times and the crowds are always lively. If you have a show court ticket, I would still encourage you to walk around the non-stadium courts and explore the grounds.

What does your typical training routine look like, and how has it changed now that you’re on the mend?

Since I’ve been injured, my training days have been tailored to rehab my injury; I’ve spent a lot of time in the gym and on the physiotherapy table. When I’m not injured, a full training day consists of around three hours of tennis, two hours in the gym, and an hour of physiotherapy.

When you’re training, what are the top three essentials you tend to have with you?

Grips and strings – the essentials. A big bottle of water. I also always have my headphones.

What about kit – any sportswear brands or items you couldn’t play tennis without?

My La Roche Posay sun cream! My racket is Dunlop and my kit is Nike, so I always use those. Headphones are important, as well as all my hydration and nutrition products.

And what do you like to do when it comes to winding down?

I like spending time at home with my family. I spend a lot of time on the road, so being at home, watching the football and going for a dog walk are things I enjoy. My mum also coaches tennis at a local school near where she lives, so I often try and get down to that when I can and join in, teaching the kids. Knowing the impact Andy Murray had on me as a role model, I hope to be an inspiration to the next generation to pursue what they’re passionate about – be it tennis or other interests. On that note, I’m working with my partner Vodafone to help open up tennis to the masses and get more kids in the local communities playing tennis, so watch this space…

Any exciting plans lined up for the rest of the year (that you can tell us about)?

I will be back competing in early August in the US Open series which all lead up to the US Open, so I am really looking forward to getting back out there and hopefully winning some tennis matches.