Tech
Published Jun 17, 2026Updated Jun 231
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Andy Murray backs Jack Draper for Wimbledon return as British star recovers from injuries
Former world No. 1 Andy Murray has backed British player Jack Draper for a Wimbledon return after working with him as a temporary coach at the LTA National Tennis Centre. Despite Draper's fall from No. 4 to No. 113 in the world due to injuries, Murray praised his tennis as "bloody good" and believes he is recovering well.
Quick Facts
- Murray endorses Draper's fitness and tennis ability
- Draper has been training on court most days
- Murray working as adviser and temporary coach to Draper
- Draper recovering from multiple injuries
- Draper scheduled to play in Eastbourne
Sir Andy Murray has issued a strong endorsement of Jack Draper's fitness and tennis ability ahead of Wimbledon, revealing that the British player has been training on court most days and describing his form as "bloody good". Murray, who retired after the Paris Olympics in 2024, has been working with Draper for the last month at the LTA's National Tennis Centre as an adviser and temporary coach.
Draper has experienced a dramatic decline in ranking, falling to No. 113 in the world after reaching No. 4 last year, following a succession of injuries including knee, elbow, and serving shoulder problems. The 23-year-old has not competed since the Barcelona Open in April. However, Murray believes Draper is now on the path to recovery and has been impressed by the quality of his practice sessions.
"His tennis is bloody good," Murray said at Queen's Club. "Obviously he's had lots of issues the last year with various injuries. I feel like he's starting to come out the other side of that now. The next step is getting on the match court and getting a consistent run of tournaments." Murray emphasised that Draper is a quick learner with very few technical weaknesses and praised him as a more complete player than expected.
Murray previously coached Novak Djokovic for four months at the start of 2025 and has made clear his coaching availability is conditional on his family commitments. He stated that while his partnership with Draper could potentially extend through the build-up to the US Open, maintaining his ability to pick up his children from school remains a priority. Murray has not yet coached Draper from courtside during a competitive match but expressed confidence in the role following his experience with Djokovic.
Draper is scheduled to compete in Eastbourne next week as part of his competitive return. The partnership reflects Murray's commitment to developing British tennis talent while navigating a balance between professional coaching obligations and family life.
Why This Matters
Murray's public endorsement signals confidence in Draper's injury recovery and competitive readiness during a critical period for British tennis. As a former world No. 1 now coaching the sport's emerging talent, Murray's assessment carries significant weight for fans, tournaments, and sponsors tracking Draper's path back to top-10 competitiveness. The partnership also demonstrates how retired elite players can contribute to developing the next generation while balancing personal commitments.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 17, 2026
WireAndy Murray publicly endorses Jack Draper at Queen's Club; Arthur Fery advances to ATP quarter-final