Jack Draper, who recently became the first British man to reach the US Open quarterfinals since Andy Murray in 2016, shared a humorous reflection on his relationship with the tennis legend. When asked if he still receives advice from Murray, Draper expressed how much he misses the presence of his fellow Brit, both on and off the court.
Draper playfully remarked, “I miss being next to his stinky shoes and all of his stinky clothes. Andy is a legend. If I have half the career that he’s had, then I’ll be a happy man.” His light-hearted comments underline the deep respect and admiration he holds for Murray, who has been an iconic figure in British tennis.
Jack Draper after becoming the 1st British man to reach US Open QF since Andy Murray in 2016
“Now that Andy Murray has retired, are there any other guys you’re getting advice from? It does Andy still text you regularly?
Jack: “No Andy I obviously miss. Shout out to him. What an… pic.twitter.com/EGq52KPE94
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 2, 2024
As Draper continues his impressive run at the US Open, his tribute to Murray reflects the strong camaraderie and mentorship that exists between the two athletes.
Draper at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2024
Now ranked no.25 (career-high), Draper has a composed 29-17 match record in 2024. Draper is competing at the U.S. Open where he ousted the world no.41 Zhizhen Zhang 6-3 6-0 4-0 ret., the world no.64 Facundo Diaz Acosta 6-4 6-2 6-2, the world no.74 Botic Van De Zandschulp 6-3 6-4 6-2 and the world no.39 Tomas Machac 6-3 6-1 6-2.
Jack Draper will compete against the world no.364 Lucas Poullain in the final. The head to head is 2-0 for Poullain.
The Brit conquered 1 title in 2024 in Stuttgart. Jack was the runner-up in Adelaide (Adelaide International).