British star Jack Draper has just enjoyed what is undoubtedly the best week of his brief but superb tennis career so far.
The 22-year-old not only clinched his first-ever ATP Tour title at the Stuttgart Open, but he also became the British men’s number one.
The overtaking of Cam Norrie in the rankings was already confirmed before his success in Germany, but the win certainly put the icing on the cake.
In yet more positive news, Draper also soared up the ATP rankings, climbing nine places to world number 31.
He is certainly deserving of the new rank, with the Brit having edged out Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini in Stuttgart.
Jack Draper issues immediate response to Andy Murray’s prediction
A comeback 3-6, 7-6(7-5), 6-4 win was achieved on the grass, and followed another win from behind in the quarter-finals against Frances Tiafoe.
The American has now predicted Draper to be the ‘best British player for a long time’, but even such high praise falls short when compared to comments made by Andy Murray.
The Scot has tipped the youngster to get to ‘the top of the world rankings’, with Draper now sending an immediate response.
“It’s amazing to hear that from someone like Andy,” said Draper, as quoted by Sky Sports. “My goal is to be one of the top players in the world.”
What does the future hold for Jack Draper?
There is, of course, a long way to go before Draper can count himself as one of the best, if not the best, in the world.
But he is certainly on the right path, with the 22-year-old now at the very top of British tennis, with some superb wins already under his belt.
Former world number one and British number one Murray clearly knows a thing or two about occupying such titles, so his backing will go a long way in providing Draper with plenty of confidence for the near future.
A very disappointing exit was suffered by the new world number 31 at the French Open, but he has wasted no time in getting back to winning ways.
Next up in the major calendar is Wimbledon, where Draper will be keen to enjoy a lengthy run after his grass-court win in Germany.
But a much tougher challenge is in store, with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz just one of several men’s stars who he will likely have to overcome at some point in London.
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