Jack Draper, the rising British tennis star, has consistently expressed his deep admiration for Rafael Nadal, often referring to him as his “biggest tennis idol.” This reverence was evident during their encounter at the 2023 Australian Open, where Draper faced Nadal in a match that showcased both his potential and the challenges of competing against a legend.
In that match, Draper began with impressive form, even breaking Nadal’s serve early in the second set. However, as the match progressed, Draper experienced cramping, which hindered his performance. Despite the setback, he acknowledged the honor of playing against Nadal on such a significant stage, stating, “Obviously playing a player like Rafa on Rod Laver, something that I’ll remember for a very long time.”
Beyond this encounter, Draper’s admiration for Nadal is reflected in his comments about the “Big Three” of tennis. While he recognizes Novak Djokovic as the greatest of all time, Draper has openly stated that his “heart says Rafa,” highlighting the emotional connection he feels towards Nadal.
This sentiment is further underscored by Draper’s playing style. As a left-handed player, Draper has drawn comparisons to Nadal, particularly in his heavy topspin forehand, which mirrors the Spaniard’s signature shot.
