"I know Andy’s there for me, but I feel relaxed": Jack Draper on skipping Murray's advice

Jack Draper admitted that he won’t ask for advice from his tennis idol, Andy Murray, ahead of the US Open semifinal. The world No. 25 follows in Murray's footsteps as the first Brit to reach a Grand Slam semifinal since the 3-time Grand Slam champion did so at the 2017 French Open.

The 22-year-old has had a brilliant run at Flushing Meadows, securing five consecutive wins without dropping a set and boasting an impressive games record, winning 71% of the games played (89-36). None of his opponents have been able to push him to a tiebreak.

The Londoner has shown his immense potential over the last three seasons, but this is the first time he’s made it this far in a Grand Slam. At 22, he seems ready to compete with the best players on Tour and is preparing to challenge world No. 1, Jannik Sinner.

Draper was asked if he has sought advice from his mentor and friend, Andy Murray, as he makes his best run at a major: "I haven’t spoken to Andy, no. I think he’s enjoying his retirement, playing lots of golf and spending time with his family. He’s never seen his family much in the last couple of years, so I think they’re enjoying having him around.”

"I have spoken to him a few times in the past about playing big Grand Slam matches and all these kinds of things. When people you respect give you advice, it’s obviously always good, but at the end of the day, it’s their experience," the Brit No. 1 added. "I think it’s important to live these situations for yourself because everyone reacts differently. I know Andy’s there for me if I need him, but I feel pretty relaxed and I’m just taking it one day at a time."

Draper has already secured a spot in the top 20 for the first time in his career, and if he beats Sinner, he will break into the top 15. Draper now aims to emulate Andy Murray in his quest for the US Open title, which the former world No. 1 won in 2012.

"Andy inspired me massively, I tell him all the time when we’re having a serious conversation that he’s done amazingly well, and he’s definitely inspired so many players," Draper recently said. "I’ve been able to become good friends with him (Murray), joke around, and get to know him outside of tennis. When I have a question," the world No. 25 added.

After defeating Alex De Minaur in the quarterfinals, Draper also paid tribute to Murray during the on-court interview: "Andy, I obviously miss him," Draper said. "Shout out to him. What an unbelievable career the guy has had. Icon of the game. I miss him in the locker room. I miss being next to his stinky shoes and all of his stinky clothes. Andy is a legend. If I have half the career that he’s had, then I’ll be a happy man."