Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has expressed strong confidence in British star Jack Draper, predicting that he’ll be “in the conversation” for all four Grand Slam titles in 2025. Draper’s US Open run came to a heartbreaking end in the semi-finals, with a tough loss to world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. The 22-year-old was aiming to become the first British man since Andy Murray in 2016 to reach a Grand Slam final, but Sinner proved too strong.
Draper, who has opened up about his struggles with anxiety, described himself as “quite an anxious human being.” Despite this, he remains optimistic that the experience will help him grow as a player. Navratilova, speaking to Sky Sports Tennis, echoed this sentiment and praised Draper’s potential, stating that if he stays healthy, “Jack will be in the conversation in every major” next year.
Navratilova, an 18-time Grand Slam singles champion, reflected on her own early experiences facing legends like Chris Evert and Margaret Court. “Everything was hit a little bit harder, a little bit deeper, a little bit closer to the sideline. It just caught up with him [Draper].” She emphasized Draper’s bright future: “If he keeps playing like this, the sky’s the limit.”
During his semi-final, Draper faced significant anxiety, even vomiting multiple times on the court. Navratilova commented on his ability to push through: “It was rough, but he still kept it together. Jack gave it absolutely his all.” While Draper appears calm on the outside, Navratilova noted, “The anxiety… it’s maybe eating him up. Something has to give, but we don’t see it when he’s playing.”
Despite the tough loss, Draper took to social media to express pride in his progress under coach James Trotman. “I gave it everything I had, but it wasn’t enough,” he wrote. “I’m very proud of the progress I’m making with my team, and I’ve still got so much to improve and learn… that motivates me so much!” Draper also congratulated his friend Sinner and thanked fans for their support, ending with the encouraging message, “Always moving forward.”
http://www.skysports.com/tennis/news/12040/13211363/jack-draper-martina-navratilova-backs-british-ace-to-be-in-conversation-for-all-four-grand-slams-in-2025