Jack Draper, widely regarded as Britain’s top prospect for a Grand Slam victory, has faced significant challenges throughout his career, notably injury setbacks since the 2025 US Open. As he prepares to return to the ATP Tour, insights from his first coach offer a rare glimpse into Draper’s relentless ambition from a very young age, highlighting key moments from his early development in tennis.
Justin Sherring, who coached Draper during his formative years, recounted their initial meeting on the show Coachlife. He described how Draper’s mother brought the young boy to his session, expecting promise but not yet fully understanding the extent of Draper’s determination.
This guy turns up at sort of five or six years old and looks at me and sort of checks me out. I thought I was checking him out. I thought I was giving him a trial. He was definitely giving me a trial,
Sherring recalled, illustrating the maturity Draper displayed even as a child.
Early Signs of a Competitive Spirit That Defined His Career
Draper’s mindset, marked by fierce competitiveness and a strong desire to prove himself, was recognizable from the very beginning of his journey. Sherring noted the pressure Draper placed not only on himself but also on those around him during their sessions, likening it to the intensity of a job interview.
So even at that young age, five, six years old, I felt like most sessions were a bit like a job interview. I felt the stress of that like I have to be good enough for you.
And I will always say thank you. I will always be very grateful for the pressure that Jack put on me for about 10 years.
I think in the end we started to get a bit more relaxed. Of course we did. But there was definitely that sense of look, this is serious to me.
Beyond Sherring, Draper also received guidance from coaches Ryan Jones and James Trotman as he transitioned towards professional tennis. Currently, he is preparing for his comeback under the tutelage of Jamie Delgado, who formerly coached Andy Murray.
Impact of Early Coaching on Draper’s Professional Rise
Justin Sherring’s role in Draper’s development has been widely praised, with Draper’s mother acknowledging his crucial influence on her son’s progress from a young age. She spoke to the LTA about Draper’s early years coaching at the Weybridge Tennis Academy.
Justin worked with him from 2006 until 2016, until he was 15. He was absolutely brilliant for Jack and he played a massive part in his younger development.
Draper’s professional debut took place in 2018, two years after ending his formal coaching relationship with Sherring. Since then, Draper’s career has been marked by significant achievements including winning his first Masters title in 2025 and reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 4, despite ongoing injury battles.
Looking Ahead to Draper’s Career Revival
As Draper prepares to return to competitive play following his arm injury, the foundation laid during his early years with Justin Sherring and other key coaches remains pivotal. His early career determination and the high standards he set for himself and his coaches have shaped a player with immense potential and resilience. Observers expect Draper to leverage these traits in his bid to climb back up the rankings and contend in upcoming Grand Slam tournaments.
