Confidence and Hard Work Drive Him Towards Grand Slam Glory

Jack Draper, Britain’s world No 5 tennis player, is feeling optimistic about his chances of making a deep run at the French Open. The 22-year-old’s recent breakthrough on clay has given him the confidence to take on the best players in the world, and he believes his ranking and recent results position him well for a potential victory in Paris.

Draper’s journey to the top of the game has not been without its setbacks. Last year’s first-round defeat at the French Open was a turning point for him, forcing him to make significant changes to his mentality and approach to the game. Since then, he has won his first ATP title in Stuttgart, and reached the quarter-finals of the Italian Open.

“I’ve really improved a lot recently, and my ranking is going up,” Draper said in an interview. “I feel confident, and I think there’s a good chance I can do really well at the French Open. With the way I’m playing, I’m feeling more comfortable on the court, and I’m able to execute my game plan more effectively.”

Draper’s rise to prominence has also brought him more attention and scrutiny, but he remains grounded and focused on his game. He recently became a Burberry ambassador, leading a commercial campaign with model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, but says life has not changed too much off the court.

“When I’m off the court, I’m quite low key,” Draper said. “I wear baggy stuff and I’ve always had my hat on on-court. It’s just more people have known me the last four months. I’m still the same person, and I’m still navigating south London without any attention. It’s just that more people have started to notice me, and that’s a good thing.”

Draper’s fellow British player, Katie Boulter, is also seeking her first victory at Roland Garros after winning her first clay court tournament at the Paris WTA 125 event last week. Boulter believes that playing in lower-ranked events can help gain confidence, and she is looking forward to the challenge of competing at the French Open.

“I think playing in lower-ranked events can be really beneficial,” Boulter said. “It allows you to gain confidence and experience in a more relaxed environment. And then when you move up to the bigger tournaments, you’re more prepared and confident. I’m feeling good about my game right now, and I’m excited to see how I can do at the French Open.”

The French Open is set to begin on May 26, and Draper is feeling optimistic about his chances of making a deep run. With his confidence and hard work driving him forward, he is ready to take on the best players in the world and make a mark on the grand slam stage.

Draper’s coach, Luke Milligan, has been instrumental in his development as a player. Milligan has worked with Draper for several years, and has helped him to improve his game and build his confidence.

“Luke has been a huge help to me,” Draper said. “He’s been with me since I was a junior, and he’s seen me grow and develop as a player. He’s always pushing me to be my best, and he’s helped me to develop a more positive mindset. I’m really grateful to have him in my corner.”

The French Open is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the world, and Draper knows that he will face tough competition from the best players in the world. But he is feeling confident and focused, and he is ready to take on the challenge.

“I’m excited to see how I can do at the French Open,” Draper said. “I know it’s going to be a tough tournament, but I’m feeling