Among those in Draper's box at Wimbledon 2025 are fitness coach Matt Little and physiotherapist Shane Annun, both trusted members of Andy Murray's former team who joined Draper's coaching staff this season.

The impact of this change is already evident. Last month, Alexander Bublik, the world number 31 from Kazakhstan, remarked on Draper's noticeably stronger and more toned physique. "Jack is an absolute animal, in my opinion," Bublik said at the French Open. "I saw him on the first day here and I was like, 'Is he preparing for UFC?'"

Draper in his first-round victory over Sebastian Baez at Wimbledon on 1/7. Photo: Reuters

Draper in his first-round victory over Sebastian Baez at Wimbledon on 1/7. Photo: Reuters

Before this season, fitness was considered Draper's weakness. His fourth-round retirement against Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open was his 16th withdrawal from a professional match, including his very first ATP Tour match at the 2021 Miami Open.

Draper's decision to change his coaching team wasn't a reflection of his previous support staff's abilities, but rather a recognition of his need to improve physically to compete with top players like Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.

Little and Annun's skills and experience align perfectly with this goal. Little is highly regarded for his 17 years with Murray, starting in 2007, transforming the then-skinny Scottish teenager into an athlete capable of winning five-set matches through strength and endurance. Murray's long-term collaboration with Little speaks volumes about the respect he holds for him.

Annun joined Murray's team in 2015, contributing to Murray's most consistent period, culminating in his rise to world number one in 2016. Annun played a crucial role in Murray's 87-match streak that year, including a 23-match unbeaten run at the end of the season, thanks to his expertise in recovery between matches. Annun also remained a close confidant during Murray's hip injury struggles, frequently visiting him at his Surrey home.

Leon Smith, Great Britain's Davis Cup captain and a former presence in Murray's support box, describes Annun and Little as exceptional professionals, possessing kindness, humility, expertise, experience, and a deep understanding of the sport.

Smith explains, "Having been around tennis for so many years, they understand the nuances of the sport. They know the tour schedule, the rhythm of the week, the rhythm of the tournament, and how to work with players in a flexible and harmonious way. Their experience with Murray has given them valuable insight into handling high-pressure situations."

Litte and Annun also understand the unique pressure British players face at Wimbledon. This is Draper's fourth Wimbledon appearance, reaching the second round in 2022 and 2024. However, 2025 marks his first time as a serious contender, seeded fourth. Having such seasoned professionals by his side is a wise decision. "It's important that they understand the pressure here," Smith adds. "If Draper is competing in big events, they know how to behave around him, what to say, what not to say, and how to handle situations within that context."

While never having worked with Murray, Draper's main coach, James Trotman, also brings valuable experience with the pressures of top-level tennis. Trotman, the 1995 Wimbledon boys' doubles champion with Martin Lee, is a highly regarded coach who began working full-time with Draper in 2021.

He guided Draper to the US Open semi-finals last year, where his on-court coaching was clearly audible. Captured by courtside microphones, Trotman's calm yet direct advice resonated with television viewers.

"I've watched a lot of matches and sat in a lot of players' boxes," Smith says. "Trotman is definitely one of the best on-court coaches. It probably stems from the deep relationship he has with Jack. He knows what to say and when to say it."

"He's very vocal during matches, but it's always at the right time. You can see that Jack completely trusts him. Their conversations are not only tactical but also demonstrate an emotional understanding of Jack on the court."

Jack Draper celebrates his Indian Wells victory with his coaching team, including head coach James Trotman (second from right), on 17/3/2025. Photo: AFP

Jack Draper celebrates his Indian Wells victory with his coaching team, including head coach James Trotman (second from right), on 17/3/2025. Photo: AFP

A less prominent member of Draper's team, also present at the All England Club, is Ann Coxhead, the breathing coach he hired last year after experiencing sinus issues. Since then, Draper has shifted his breathing primarily from his mouth to his nose, significantly improving his oxygen intake.

"Having Coxhead is like having another physio or fitness coach," Draper recently explained. "In tennis, where everything is decided by small details or percentages, working with her is invaluable. I consider her a real asset. She has greatly improved my physical condition and overall well-being."

Draper's family will also be at the All England Club to support him. His older brother, Ben, 26, a former American college player and now Draper's agent through IMG, and his mother, Nicky, are regulars in his support box. His father, Roger, although separated from Nicky, often watches from elsewhere in the grounds.

Having defeated Sebastian Baez, the world number 38 from Argentina, in the first round, Draper will face 2017 finalist Marin Cilic in the second round. "It's a great opportunity to show the British public what I can do on the court and also show my personality," Draper said. "Especially at Wimbledon, getting the crowd on your side is a huge advantage against your opponents."

Hoang Thong (adapted from The Times)