Throughout the previous year, Draper’s advancement has consistently been strong and unwavering.
He secured his initial championship on the Stuttgart grass courts during June of the prior year, subsequently claiming an ATP 500 hard-court championship in Vienna that October.
His journey to the US Open semi-finals drew considerable notice from the broader British populace, though his anxiety was evident when he became ill on court during a match he lost to the eventual victor, Jannik Sinner.
To address this concern, Draper started working with a “breathing coach,” and he cited his performance in overcoming the third set against Alcaraz as proof of his enhanced calm.
He stated, “Leading up to the Indian Wells final, I harbored some uncertainties about whether I would experience similar sensations, but those feelings did not manifest.”
He continued, “I maintained immense strength and concentrated on my respiration and the elements within my control. That is precisely what brought me great pride.”
Transitioning from a Masters champion, the subsequent, logical progression involves achieving the status of a Grand Slam champion.
While triumphing at Indian Wells does not assure subsequent significant victories, as demonstrated by Dominic Thiem, Naomi Osaka, and Bianca Andreescu, prevailing over a 96-player roster of top-tier competitors strongly suggests potential.
Draper has found the most success on hard courts, however, the upcoming two major tournaments will be contested on the clay courts of the French Open and the grass of Wimbledon.
He has encountered difficulties on clay thus far, yet his enhanced footwork is expected to be beneficial, and his progressively potent serve and groundstrokes are well-suited for achievements on grass courts.
Draper further remarked, “I still perceive a considerable amount I need to demonstrate on clay.”
He elaborated, “Last year, I didn’t find my rhythm, but I see no reason why I shouldn’t be able to challenge the top contenders on that particular surface.”
He concluded, “Regarding grass, I believe my performance has significantly advanced since the previous year.”
