Juan Martin del Potro, a former Grand Slam champion, believes Jack Draper has the potential to compete with top players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, but notes that Draper needs to gain confidence in his body. Del Potro, who struggled with injuries throughout his career, including wrist and knee problems, understands the importance of consistency, fitness, and managing expectations on the biggest stages.
Draper, currently ranked 28th, has been working his way back to competition after almost six months out due to a bone stress injury in his left arm. He has shown impressive performances, including a win over Novak Djokovic, but has also faced setbacks, such as a mid-match retirement at the Barcelona Open.
Del Potro, who lost to Andy Murray in the Olympic men's singles final in 2016, thinks Draper has an advantage as a left-handed player but needs his body to respond to the high intensity of matches and tournaments. Draper has also battled anxiety issues and injuries to his hip, knee, and arm, but Del Potro believes British tennis is in good hands. Del Potro, nicknamed 'The Tower of Tandil', emphasized the importance of having a strong team, including a physical trainer, physio, and mental coach, to overcome injuries and bad moments. With the Madrid Open approaching, Draper will hope to return to form, and Del Potro's words of encouragement may provide a boost to his confidence.