Jack Draper excited to return to UTS in front of home crowd

World No.10 Jack Draper told, in an interview co-conducted by UTS and Tennis Majors, that he is eager to be back at competition at the UTS Grand Final in London, December 5-7th. The Brit looks forward to the energy of the home crowd at Copper Box Arena, where he has never played (tickets available here).

“I feel ready and excited,” Draper said before competing with Casper Ruud, Francisco Cerundolo and David Goffin. “Playing in London again with tough opponents will be a great test.”

“The crowd will help a lot, especially against tough opponents. I’ve competed for a while and need that crowd energy”, the 2023 UTS Grand Final winner said.

Draper praised the format’s physicality and mental challenge that UTS rules represent for him. “There’s so much going in a UTS match, it demands a lot mentally and physically. My breathing was trying to keep up with my mind’s pace.”

British No.1

Returning as British No. 1, Draper embraced the added responsibility. “It’s an honor and privilege. My goal was always to be one of the best, but the position came with success. I enjoy it but don’t overthink it. We have a new generation of British players. I support them and want them to succeed. It’s great for British tennis to have a strong group pushing for that spot.”

Recounting his 2023 UTS experience, Draper said, “Being in London with a home crowd and my coach on court was fantastic. It gave me confidence going into the 2024 season”, where he reached the US Open semifinals.

He also fondly remembers winning the Lightning Bolt trophy. “It’s at my mum’s house on top of my bedroom cabinet.” Time to chase a second.