Jack Draper makes comment about what he sees Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner do regularly after reaching the Madrid Open semi-final

Jack Draper’s breakthrough run to the 2025 Madrid Open semi-finals, where he defeated Matteo Arnaldi 6-0, 6-4, marked a career milestone as he entered the ATP top five for the first time. In a post-match interview with Sky Sports, the 23-year-old Brit reflected on the fearless approach of world No. 1 Jannik Sinner and No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz, saying, “You see guys like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have no fear and so I just want to go after it, I suppose.” Draper admired their relentless aggression, noting how they “go after every ball” without hesitation, embracing bold shot-making even at the risk of errors. This mindset, he believes, distinguishes them as elite competitors and is a quality he aims to adopt to challenge the sport’s top tier.

Draper’s comments underscore his ambition to close the gap with Sinner and Alcaraz, both of whom he has encountered closely. He stunned Alcaraz at Queen’s Club in 2024, showcasing his potential to compete with the best, and trained with Sinner in Monte Carlo before the Italian Open, gaining insight into the world No. 1’s work ethic. His 2025 season has been transformative, with an Indian Wells Masters title, a US Open semi-final, and a 22-6 win-loss record by May. On Madrid’s clay, Draper’s powerful forehand and improved movement shone, though he fell 6-3, 7-5 to Alcaraz in the semi-finals, a match that tested his ability to match the Spaniard’s intensity.

Draper’s focus on emulating Sinner and Alcaraz’s fearlessness reflects his evolving mentality. Previously known for defensive play, he has embraced a more attacking style, evident in his 28 winners against Arnaldi. He credited his physical progress, stating, “I’m moving better on clay than ever before,” a crucial factor on the demanding surface. His rise, alongside Britain’s Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans, signals a strong era for British tennis, with Draper leading the charge as a potential Grand Slam contender.

Looking ahead, Draper aims to carry this momentum into the Italian Open and Roland Garros, where he hopes to make his first Grand Slam quarter-final. His admiration for Sinner and Alcaraz’s boldness, combined with his own growing confidence, positions him as a rising star. As he told Sky Sports, “I’m learning to play without fear, and that’s what will take me further.”