Jack Draper, the 23-year-old British tennis sensation, is creating quite a stir this 2025 season. Following a successful 2024 in which he clenched two titles and ascended to the world’s top 15, Draper continues to unsettle top-tier players. A recent upset against Taylor Fritz has propelled him into the quarter-finals at Indian Wells.
Integral to Draper’s steady climb up the ranks has been his coach, James Trotman, affectionately known as ‘Trots.’ Draper’s rapport with his coach extends beyond the court, an aspect he values immensely. Their camaraderie is so intense that Draper quips his mentor might be “getting tired of him.”
Although Draper was always considered a promising player, it took time for the Brit to establish a steady rhythm on the professional tour. His early career was marred by a series of injuries and setbacks. However, the last year has seen Draper metamorphose into one of the world’s premier tennis players, a formidable force that his competitors dread encountering in the draw.
Draper attributes much of his success and growth to his team, especially Trotman. The British No. 1 recently shed light on his unique relationship with his coach following his maiden quarter-final entry at Indian Wells. The duo’s off-the-court camaraderie, according to Draper, is as crucial as their on-court strategies.
Praising his coach, Draper said to Tennis Channel, “He’s one of a kind. 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 further elaborated on Trotman’s supportive nature, particularly towards a young player navigating various off-the-court challenges.
The pair maintains a professional attitude during matches, but Draper relishes the lighter moments with Trotman when they are off duty. He added, “It’s nice to be on the road with him and come through all these types of emotions…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.”
Given the amount of time they spend together, a healthy relationship is paramount for Draper. Yet, he candidly admitted that they occasionally tire of each other’s company. Humorously, he said, “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.”
Echoing Draper’s sentiments, Trotman also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with the young prodigy. In a recent interview with the ATP, Trotman shared, “At the end of the day, a ranking is a ranking and I’m interested in trying to get the best out of someone, whoever I’m coaching.” He emphasised the importance of their relationship, acknowledging the need for open dialogue, respect, personal space, and the ability to share a laugh in high-pressure situations.