2024 was a memorable year for British tennis player Jack Draper, who rose from outside the top 60 to a career-high world number 15, reached his first Grand Slam semi-final and won his first ATP 500 title.
Along the way, he defeated Grand Slam champions Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.
"I think I deserve to be at the top of the sport, with all the weapons I have in my hands, my fighting spirit. Obviously there are a lot of things to improve, but I think the most important thing is experience for each match."
Draper showed potential from a young age, but was hampered by injuries and physical demands. In 2024, he played more consistently than in previous years and avoided long-term injuries.
Thanks to the confrontations with Alcaraz and Sinner this year, Draper believes that his mindset, tactical awareness and confidence have changed significantly.
"I love to compete, I love to fight, I love to play in front of crowds. There's no place in the world that I crave more than the biggest stages in tennis," Draper said.
The 23-year-old is currently suffering from a hip injury, forcing him to withdraw from the United Cup this week. The problem will also affect his preparation for the 2025 Australian Open next month.
