Jack Draper has admitted to “waking up angry” following his outburst at the Italian Open. As the young Brit continues to adjust to life as one of tennis’s rising stars, he might benefit from the perspective of his idol Andy Murray, who has previously described on-court anger as a sign of “weakness.”
Draper reflected on his volatile reaction after smashing his racket in frustration during Sunday’s match in Rome. Despite holding a strong lead over Vit Kopriva, the world No. 5 lost his composure after failing to convert several break points, repeatedly slamming his racket and receiving a code violation. Although he went on to win 6-4, 6-3, Draper admitted his emotions had gotten the better of him.
“I felt a little bit low on energy,” he told Sky Sports. “Obviously, the frustration boiled out a little too much in the end, but I stayed at it and came through.
“On certain days, I’m human, we don’t always wake up out of bed feeling great. I’m the same, I get out of bed and I feel so angry some days and I’ve got to play a tennis match and I’ve got to lose points.
“I’ve got to go through the emotional ups and downs, even with that going on. It’s taking some getting used to for me from a mental and physical side. I want to keep going but it’s sometimes difficult to always be perfect.”
Draper’s honest reflection mirrors Andy Murray’s own experiences. Before becoming a Grand Slam champion, the Scot also struggled with controlling his temper.
One notable incident occurred during a warm-up match for the 2008 Australian Open, where he slammed his racket and shouted in frustration—one of several episodes that even prompted American legend John McEnroe to offer his guidance.
The seven-time Grand Slam winner has previously admitted to working with psychologists to manage his emotions, having become well known for his fiery on-court outbursts.
“He probably should give me a call and I might be able to help,” said McEnroe back in 2008. “My anger would be funnelled in a positive manner, his brings negativity.”
Though it’s uncertain whether Murray ever took up McEnroe’s offer, the 37-year-old admitted in a 2022 interview with The Telegraph that his temper was simply part of his game—something he eventually learned to control.
“I’ve broken a few rackets in my career, but I’m more of a shouter. On the court is where that side of me comes out.” he said.
“Showing too much emotion on the tennis court is seen as a weakness,” Murray confirmed.
It’s now up to Draper to overcome his inner struggles if he hopes to elevate his game, as he prepares to face Corentin Moutet in the round of 16 in Rome on Tuesday.
