Behind every rising sports star is often a dedicated parent, and in the case of British tennis sensation Jack Draper, that parent is his mother, Nicky Draper. A former junior British tennis champion herself, Nicky has played a vital role in shaping her son’s career both on and off the court. As the wife of former Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) chief executive Roger Draper, Nicky’s connection to the tennis world runs deep.
A Champion in Her Own Right
Before becoming known as the mother of a tennis star, Nicky Draper made her mark in the sport. She was once a junior British champion, a title that reflected not only her talent but also her strong work ethic and love for the game. Her experiences on the court would later become the foundation of her coaching and mentoring approach.
Nicky’s background gave her an edge in understanding the pressures and technical demands of competitive tennis knowledge she would pass on to her sons.
First Coach, First Inspiration
Nicky introduced Jack Draper to tennis when he was just one year old. She recognised his potential early and became his first coach, guiding his development during the most formative years of his life. Her approach blended professional expertise with maternal care, helping Jack develop both skill and mental resilience.
Under her direction, Jack honed his groundstrokes, footwork, and court awareness essential attributes that have helped him succeed on the global tennis stage. Even as Jack moved on to professional training academies, Nicky’s early influence remained evident in his disciplined style and focused mentality.
A Family Steeped in Tennis
Nicky’s marriage to Roger Draper, former chief of the Lawn Tennis Association, placed the family at the very heart of British tennis. Roger played a significant role in shaping national tennis policy and development strategies during his time at the LTA. Their shared passion for the sport fostered a unique home environment where tennis was more than just a game it was a way of life.
Their older son, Ben Draper, also played tennis competitively, representing the University of California, Berkeley, at the collegiate level. This shows that the entire Draper family is deeply embedded in the sport, making tennis a family tradition.
Quiet Strength and Support
Unlike her husband, who often held public-facing leadership roles in the sport, Nicky has largely stayed out of the spotlight. However, her influence has been just as profound. She has supported Jack not only in coaching but also emotionally, helping him manage the challenges of high-pressure tournaments and the demands of professional sport.
She is often seen in the stands at Jack’s matches, calmly watching, her presence a steady source of support. While her coaching role may have shifted as Jack advanced, her importance in his journey remains constant.
Conclusion
Nicky Draper is more than just the wife of Roger Draper or the mother of Jack Draper she is a tennis champion, a coach, and a mentor. Her dedication to her son’s early training and her continued support have been crucial to his development into one of Britain’s most promising tennis stars. As Jack continues to rise in global rankings, it’s clear that the legacy of Nicky Draper on and off the court continues to shape the future of British tennis.
Read More: Jack Draper: His Mother Nicky Draper Was His First Tennis Coach