British tennis player Jack Draper is scheduled to make his competitive return on Monday at the Eastbourne International against Brandon Nakashima of the United States, following an 11-month period heavily disrupted by severe arm and knee injuries.
The 24-year-old lefty, whose ranking recently dropped to world No. 113, is entering his first tournament since adding his childhood idol Andy Murray to his coaching team ahead of Wimbledon.
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Speaking about the new partnership, Draper highlighted the extensive expertise that the veteran Scot brings to his recovery and training sessions.
"His tennis knowledge is incredible," said Draper.
Draper explained that working with his long-time inspiration has provided a crucial boost to his mental state and confidence during a prolonged rehabilitation process.
"My tennis is actually in a really, really good spot.
[I have] lost a lot of confidence in my body over the last year that I'm rebuilding back again.
Having someone who believes in you as a person, as a player who's one of your biggest inspirations … I have a great relationship with him off the court – our relationship is very special – and that gives me a bit more energy, especially in a moment where I'm coming back and I need to have that good energy around me," said Draper.
Reflecting on the psychological difficulties of being sidelined, Draper admitted that coping with consecutive physical setbacks felt deeply isolating.
"It's been an incredibly difficult year," said Draper.
