"He’s always been there for me": Jack Draper praises coach James Trotman after impressive run at Indian Wells

Britain’s Jack Draper has heaped praise on his coach, James Trotman, after an impressive run at Indian Wells. The 23-year-old is regarded as one of the most talented players currently playing in men’s tennis in the singles category.

Draper is currently participating in an ATP 1000 event in California. He cemented his spot in the last four after beating America’s Ben Shelton in the quarterfinal in straight sets with a score of 6-4, 7-5. He was the second high-profile American player defeated by the Sutton-born in the competition. In the round of 16, Draper got the better of the 2024 US Open runner-up Taylor Fritz in straight sets with a score of 7-5, 6-4.

The reigning world number 14 talked to The Tennis Channel, which was quoted by English media outlet Daily Express. In it, he praised the impact of his coach, Trotman. The 2024 US Open semifinalist stated that the two have a ‘great relationship’ and suggested that his coach might be ‘getting tired’ of him.

“He’s one of a kind,” said Draper. He hasn’t got hardly any ego at all. Not only does he know so much about tennis but he’s got such a good character and personality for me. He always wants to help and is always understanding of how, especially as a young player, we go through a lot off the court. He’s always been there for me and is always amazing. We have such a great relationship and a lot of respect for each other as well. It’s nice to be on the road with him and come through all these types of emotions. We talk tennis and keep it very professional, but it’s also nice to be able to go out to dinner with someone and laugh and sort of take the mick out of each other and have a good time. We’re living with each other all the time. I see him more than my mom or my dog, and I don’t want to. He probably gets tired of me as well. But we always have a good time. We want to win and have great success together, but we can still have a laugh.”