Jack Draper Hires Andy Murray’s Former Coach Jamie Delgado in Major Team Shake-Up
British No. 1 Jack Draper has appointed Jamie Delgado, Andy Murray’s former coach, as his new lead coach ahead of the 2026 season, marking a significant evolution in his support team.** The 23-year-old, currently sidelined by a left-arm injury, will work with Delgado, who guided Murray to world No. 1 and his second Wimbledon title, while long-time coach James Trotman steps back from full-time travel but remains involved.
A New Era for Draper’s Coaching Team
Delgado, 48, joins Draper’s camp as the primary on-tour presence, having recently parted ways with Grigor Dimitrov after three successful years that helped the Bulgarian return to the top 10. A former British Davis Cup player with a record 23 consecutive Wimbledon appearances, Delgado’s most notable stint was with Murray from 2016 to 2021, during which the Scot won his second Wimbledon in 2016, reached his first French Open final, and ended the year as world No. 1. Delgado’s track record with high-profile players like Denis Shapovalov and Dimitrov, both of whom credited him for major improvements, makes him a strategic addition for Draper as he targets a career-high breakthrough in 2026.
Trotman, who has coached Draper since he was 12 and played a key role in his rise to British No. 1 and career-high No. 4 earlier this year, will reduce his on-tour presence to spend more time at home but remain deeply involved in training and strategy. Draper’s team also includes Murray’s former physio Shane Annun and fitness coach Matt Little, further linking him to British tennis royalty.
Draper’s 2025 Season: A Breakout Year Cut Short
Draper’s 2025 was his most successful to date, highlighted by his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells and a final in Madrid, propelling him to a career-high No. 4 ranking. However, a left-arm injury—diagnosed as bone bruising after Wimbledon—forced him to miss the US Open and end his season early, dropping him to No. 8. The new coaching dynamic begins with pre-season training next month, aiming to address these setbacks and propel Draper toward Grand Slam contention in 2026.
Why the Change? A Strategic Evolution
Draper’s decision reflects a desire for fresh input as he matures into the sport’s elite. Trotman’s reduced role allows the 23-year-old to balance family time while retaining his foundational guidance. Delgado’s expertise in high-pressure environments, honed with Murray during his peak years, is expected to sharpen Draper’s mental game and tactical acumen. Draper, who won his first Masters 1000 at Indian Wells and reached the Madrid final before injury struck, views the change as a step toward Grand Slam contention.
Fan and Expert Reactions: A Promising Partnership
Tennis fans and analysts have welcomed the news, with social media buzzing about Draper’s “Murray magic” connection. Posts on X highlighted the irony of British tennis’s changing of the guard, with one user noting: “Draper channeling Murray’s era with Delgado—watch out, world!” Experts like those at BBC Sport praised the move as “strategic,” given Delgado’s success with veterans like Dimitrov, who credited him for tactical sharpness. Trotman’s continued role ensures continuity, as Draper looks to rebound from his injury-plagued end to 2025.
With pre-season training starting next month, Draper’s new setup promises a competitive edge for 2026, potentially challenging the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open and beyond. As the British flagbearer, this hire could herald a new golden era for UK tennis.
