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Andy Murray’s Humorous Jab at Jack Draper’s Hairstyle Ahead of Clay Season
Veteran tennis star Andy Murray playfully teased Jack Draper, Britain’s top-ranked player, after Draper posted on social media about his clay court preparations. Draper, fresh off his career-best victory at Indian Wells, where he secured his most significant title, experienced an early exit in Miami. Murray noticed a minor alteration in Draper’s appearance and couldn’t resist a good-natured jest directed at his younger compatriot in the comments section.
Draper’s Hard Work and Murray’s Sharp Wit
Following his impressive triumph in the Californian desert, Draper has been diligently training back in the UK. The 23-year-old enjoyed a remarkable run at Indian Wells the previous month, overcoming formidable opponents including Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, Carlos Alcaraz, and Holger Rune to clinch his inaugural Masters 1000 title.
Despite an unexpected early loss to Jakub Mensik at the Miami Open, it proved not to be a setback as Mensik went on to win the tournament, defeating Novak Djokovic in the final showdown. Draper’s prompt return home allowed him to recuperate and gear up for the approaching clay court season.
The British No. 1 has dedicated the past week to rigorous training at the National Tennis Centre. He shared a photo compilation on Instagram documenting his activities at home, featuring a mix of snapshots from training sessions alongside fellow Brit Jacob Fearnley, and moments of leisure.
However, a minor visual adjustment captured Murray’s attention. Draper’s new blonde highlights became the target of the retired British tennis legend’s playful ribbing regarding his altered appearance.
Murray’s Poignant Comment on Draper’s Highlights
“Not sure if you noticed but I think a bird has [poo emoji] on your hair in that photo,” the former world No. 1 quipped in a comment.
Draper has yet to publicly respond to Murray’s playful insult. He is expected to showcase his fresh hairstyle at the upcoming Monte-Carlo Masters next week. After a challenging clay court season last year, marked by several close three-set defeats, the 23-year-old will be eager to achieve improved results in 2025.
Reflecting on his Indian Wells victory, Draper stated, “I think I’m going feel a lot better on the clay this year considering the last 12 months I’ve had and the belief I have.”
“But also I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove and I’m really motivated to be back on that surface and show that I can produce results on every type of court.”
Murray’s Coaching Role and Djokovic’s Clay Season Ambitions
Murray might also feature during the clay swing as Djokovic aims to rebound from his Miami Open final loss.
The retired British player has taken on a coaching role with his former rival during the off-season and recently spent time with Djokovic’s team in Indian Wells and Miami.
At the Miami Open, Djokovic reached his first final since October but was defeated by Mensik in two tie-break sets and appeared to be struggling with an eye issue.
“[I prefer to] just congratulate him. That’s it. I don’t want to sound like I’m giving excuses here for my loss,” Djokovic commented regarding his physical condition.