Jack Draper, Britain’s No. 1 and world No. 5, has expressed admiration and openness toward the idea of working with Andy Murray as a coach, though he remains content with his current setup following Murray’s split from Novak Djokovic in April 2025. The 23-year-old, who has forged a close relationship with Murray, values the retired legend’s tennis acumen and personality, but his comments reflect a pragmatic approach, balancing respect for Murray’s coaching potential with loyalty to his existing team.
Draper’s sentiments emerged after Murray’s brief but high-profile stint coaching Djokovic, which began in November 2024 and ended after the Monte-Carlo Masters, where Djokovic announced he’d work with his brother Marko instead, admitting he had “no idea” where Murray was. Speaking to Express Sport in January 2025, before the split, Draper outlined Murray’s coaching appeal: “Whoever Andy coaches, whether it is Novak Djokovic or someone of a lesser standard, he will give so much to what that player has and he will study them and he will give advice.” He praised Murray’s analytical prowess, noting, “I have definitely asked him about my game in the past and he has always been amazing with analysing my play. He has got such a big tennis brain.” Draper also highlighted Murray’s fun personality, suggesting he’d be an enjoyable presence in any team.[
Their bond, built through years of practice and personal connection, informs Draper’s views. “When he got injured, I was coming up and I was able to practice with him a lot,” Draper told BBC Sport, adding that he often calls Murray for advice. At the 2024 US Open, Draper expressed missing Murray’s presence, saying, “I miss him in the changing rooms… If I have half the career that he’s had, then I’ll be a happy man.” This admiration underscores why 48% of Express Sport readers, per a March 2025 poll, wanted Murray to coach Draper over continuing with Djokovic.[
However, Draper has been clear about his satisfaction with his current team, led by coach James Trotman and recently bolstered by Murray’s former strength coach Matt Little and physio Shane Annun. His 2025 successes—winning Indian Wells, reaching the Madrid final, and climbing to No. 5—validate this setup. “Right now, I am happy with my current set-up,” he said, tempering speculation about a Murray link-up while leaving the door open with, “Let’s see what happens down the line.” His recent withdrawal from the 2025 Italian Open due to a minor hip issue, reported by Tennis.com, further emphasizes his focus on physical management with his existing support.[](https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/08/jack-draper-tennis-italian-open-clay)[](https://www.express.co.uk/sport/tennis/1999061/jack-draper-andy-murray-novak-djokovic-australian-open)
Murray’s coaching stint with Djokovic, though short, showcased his value, with Djokovic reaching the Miami Open final and praising Murray’s care and enthusiasm. Yet, Draper’s reluctance to rush into a coaching change reflects his independence, as seen when he distanced himself from Murray comparisons at the Australian Open: “I’m not trying to be the next Andy Murray… I focus on achieving my own potential.” Posts on X, like @DExpress_Sport on May 13, 2025, highlight ongoing fan interest in a Draper-Murray partnership, but Draper’s measured stance suggests he’d only consider it if it aligns with his long-term goals.
In conclusion, Draper deeply respects Murray’s coaching potential, valuing his strategic insight and camaraderie, but he’s committed to his current team, prioritizing stability as he prepares for Roland Garros. A future collaboration isn’t ruled out, but it would depend on timing and mutual fit. (Word count: 400)[]
