Jack Draper appoints Andy Murray to lead coaching setup for grass-court campaign
The appointment marks a strategic shift ahead of Wimbledon, with the Lawn Tennis Association confirming its continued institutional support alongside the new coach.
British number two Jack Draper has formalised a change in his coaching structure by appointing former world number one Andy Murray to lead his team for the grass-court season. This appointment follows the player's decision to part company with his previous coach, Jamie Delgado, after six months of working together. Murray, who last guided a top-ranked player during a six-month stint with Novak Djokovic, will now focus his efforts on supporting Draper through the upcoming grass season, which culminates in Wimbledon.
The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has confirmed that its team will continue to provide institutional support to Draper during this transitional period. Draper stated that he will remain supported by the LTA's excellent team, with Murray added to the roster specifically for the grass-court campaign. This arrangement ensures that the player retains access to the national body's resources while integrating the experience of a former Grand Slam champion into his immediate coaching circle.
Draper, currently sidelined from the French Open due to a confirmed knee injury, expressed his gratitude for the support received from Delgado during their tenure. He described the former coach as a world-class coach and a great man, acknowledging the assistance provided over the past six months. The player noted that while he will miss the clay-court tournament due to his physical condition, the addition of Murray is designed to bolster his preparation for the surface where he aims to compete.
Murray, 38, has not been actively involved on the tour since his coaching engagement with Djokovic concluded last year. His return to the coaching fold for Draper represents a significant shift in the British player's strategy as the grass-court season approaches. The specific nature of Murray's role is defined as supporting the player throughout the grass season, though the exact duration of his involvement beyond this period remains undefined in current communications.
The grass-court season is scheduled to commence with Wimbledon on 29 June. Draper, who is currently ranked second in the world, has historically struggled with a catalogue of injuries throughout his career. The current knee injury necessitated his withdrawal from the French Open, prompting the restructuring of his support team to ensure optimal preparation for the remaining tournaments on the calendar.
