Jack Draper prepared to hold British hopes in first Wimbledon since Sir Andy Murray’s retirement | Tennis Information

British No 1 Jack Draper feels prepared to hold the hopes of a nation on the first Wimbledon since two-time champion Sir Andy Murray’s retirement.

Draper heads into his residence Grand Slam ranked fourth on this planet and having claimed three titles during the last 12 months, together with the Masters 1000 occasion at Indian Wells in March.

The 23-year-old has solely gained two matches at Wimbledon in his profession and was knocked out within the second spherical by compatriot Cameron Norrie in 2024.

Draper is a real title contender this time round however faces a brutal draw, with Alexander Bublik – the person who knocked him out of the French Open – Jakub Mensik, Novak Djokovic and world No 1 Jannik Sinner all potential opponents down the road.

Draper, who will tackle Argentina’s Sebastian Baez within the first spherical on Tuesday, mentioned: “Clearly when Andy retired, they mentioned I used to be the subsequent in line.

“Andy has accomplished an unbelievable job, been extremely profitable and turn into adored by the nation. It is clearly massive sneakers to fill. I am conscious of that.

“On the identical time I am assured in myself that hopefully I can encourage folks like Andy has accomplished. I will do my greatest to maintain enhancing, to point out my greatest tennis and hopefully current myself because the participant and the individual I wish to be.

‘I do know Andy is true there if I want him’

“Andy has given me a tremendous quantity of suggestions and recommendation over time. I believe one of many greatest issues is everyone seems to be on their completely different journey.

“He additionally mentioned he would not prefer to intrude.

“I believe he is very reluctant to touch upon something to do with me as a result of he understands what it is prefer to be on this place, to have folks asking me stuff on a regular basis about issues.

“I do know Andy’s proper there for me if I want him anytime. There could come some extent the place I ask him a number of issues, and I am positive he’ll come again and be extraordinarily useful and supportive, as at all times.”

On his tough-looking path to the ultimate, Draper added: “I have never checked out that in any respect. I have a look at my first spherical, who I’ve. I respect each individual within the draw.

“I’ve received Baez on Tuesday, and I am not wanting additional than that. I do know he is a powerful participant. He is right here off his personal advantage. I look no additional than him.”

Observe Wimbledon throughout Sky Sports activities‘ digital platforms from June 30-July 13.