Juan Martin del Potro, a former Grand Slam winner, believes Jack Draper has the potential to rival top players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, provided he can overcome his physical challenges. Del Potro, who struggled with injuries throughout his career, including wrist and knee problems, stresses the importance of Draper gaining 'confidence in his body' to achieve consistency and handle the pressures of major tournaments.
Draper, tipped as a future Grand Slam contender, has faced setbacks including a bone stress injury in his left arm and more recently, a knee injury that led to his withdrawal from the Mutua Madrid Open. Despite these challenges, Del Potro is optimistic about Draper's abilities, citing his advantage as a left-handed player and his talent for the game. However, he also acknowledges the critical role of physical fitness and mental toughness in overcoming injuries and performing at the highest level. Del Potro reflects on his own career, where injuries were a significant obstacle, but he preferred competing against the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
He advises creating a strong support team, including physical trainers, physios, and mental coaches, to navigate the inevitable injuries that come with being an athlete. With the Madrid Open approaching, Draper aims to return to form, having previously shown his capability on clay with a run to the final last year. The tournament, which starts on April 21, will feature top players, and with the right mindset and physical condition, Draper could make a significant impact.