British tennis player Jack Draper has been turning heads with his rapid progress on the ATP tour. Known for his powerful left-handed game and strong work ethic, Draper has recently been training alongside two of the most accomplished players in the sport: Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic. After these recent practice sessions, Draper has shared some intriguing insights into the habits and mentality of two of the game’s elite, offering valuable lessons for players at every level.
Draper, who has had the opportunity to work with both players up close, revealed that there’s one thing he has noticed they both consistently do after their training sessions. It’s not just about physical recovery, but a mindset that has helped propel them to the very top of the sport. What does this revelation say about the importance of mental preparation, consistency, and discipline in professional tennis? Let’s take a closer look.
### 1. **The Importance of Recovery and Routine**
One of the first things Draper noticed about Sinner and Djokovic is their commitment to recovery after training. Both players approach this crucial part of their routines with an unwavering focus. It’s not just about hitting the gym or stretching—there’s a clear structure to their post-practice ritual that plays a huge role in maintaining their physical and mental sharpness.
For many players, recovery can be an afterthought, something that happens once they’ve finished their practice or match. But for Djokovic and Sinner, recovery is just as important as the training itself. Draper noted that both players dedicate significant time to recovery-focused activities like stretching, ice baths, and physiotherapy, all of which help in reducing muscle fatigue and improving flexibility. Djokovic, in particular, has long been known for his meticulous approach to his body, with a strict focus on nutrition, hydration, and rest, which he believes are just as important as his on-court work.
Sinner, although a younger player, shows a similar level of dedication to recovery. His commitment to taking care of his body has been a key part of his rapid rise through the ranks. Draper observed that Sinner pays close attention to his stretching and often works with his coach or physiotherapist even after a seemingly light practice session. This focus on recovery, Draper suggests, helps them avoid injuries and maintain peak performance over the course of long, grueling seasons.
### 2. **Mental Toughness and Focus Beyond the Court**
Beyond the physical aspects of their routines, Draper was also struck by the mental discipline of Sinner and Djokovic. Both players, despite their different personalities and approaches to the game, share an unshakable mental strength that allows them to compete at the highest level.
Draper remarked on Djokovic’s legendary focus and determination, which transcends practice and permeates every aspect of his approach to the sport. Even after finishing a rigorous practice, Djokovic remains deeply involved in improving his game. The Serbian star often spends time reflecting on what went well and what needs improvement, both on and off the court. This reflective habit allows Djokovic to continually evolve, even after years of dominance. Draper shared that, when training with Djokovic, there’s an aura of intensity that doesn’t let up, regardless of the time of day or the session’s intensity. It’s a focus that’s incredibly contagious and motivating for anyone who trains with him.
For Sinner, Draper noted the Italian’s quiet but intense approach. Sinner is not the most vocal player, but his focus is unyielding. After a practice session, Sinner spends time with his team analyzing his performance. Draper observed that Sinner’s ability to compartmentalize and reflect on his practice sessions is something that could serve as a huge asset for players looking to improve. While it might not be as immediately obvious as Djokovic’s, Sinner’s mental toughness manifests in his consistent improvement and his ability to stay composed under pressure during matches.
This dedication to mental preparation is not limited to formal sessions either. Draper mentioned how both players continue to work on their game during downtime. They take the time to refine small details, experiment with different techniques, or simply analyze their opponents. This extra layer of commitment shows that their minds never truly “switch off,” even when they’re not on the court.
### 3. **The Role of Consistency in Elite Performance**
Both Sinner and Djokovic embody the importance of consistency, both in training and in competitive play. Draper, a player who has been building his own career, was able to witness firsthand how critical it is for top-level players to maintain a high standard in each and every session. He noted that neither Djokovic nor Sinner ever take a practice session for granted, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant it may seem.
For Djokovic, consistency is a core part of his philosophy. Known for his ability to maintain a high level of play for hours on end, Djokovic has made it clear that his success is built on the ability to perform day in and day out, in practice and matches. Draper observed that even after multiple Grand Slam wins and years at the top, Djokovic still approaches each training session as if it were his first, putting in the same amount of effort, attention to detail, and precision.
Similarly, Sinner is becoming known for his consistent game. Draper remarked on how Sinner’s game, which is characterized by powerful baseline hitting and exceptional movement, rarely fluctuates in performance. This consistency comes from the hours of hard work and repetition that he puts in on the practice courts. Sinner’s ability to stay grounded and focused on his own game, rather than getting distracted by external pressures or the expectations of others, is something that Draper admired.
### 4. **The Dedication to Improvement**
Finally, Draper highlighted a crucial aspect of both Sinner and Djokovic’s practices: their relentless pursuit of improvement. Both players are constantly trying to better themselves, even when they’re already performing at an elite level. Djokovic, for instance, is known for his relentless search for new ways to improve his game, whether it’s through fitness, nutrition, or refining his already formidable mental toughness.
Sinner, while still younger and at the beginning of his journey to the top, demonstrates a similar mindset. Draper remarked on how Sinner doesn’t shy away from putting in the extra work necessary to close the gap between him and the top players. Sinner’s willingness to seek out new methods, adapt, and continuously learn is a trait that Draper believes will be key to his continued success.
### Conclusion
Training with two of the sport’s best players has given Jack Draper a unique perspective on the habits and mindset that make Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner elite competitors. Their commitment to recovery, mental focus, consistency, and relentless improvement are key factors that set them apart from others. Draper, a young player himself, can now apply these insights to his own game, and the broader tennis community can learn from the dedication and discipline displayed by Djokovic and Sinner.
As Draper continues to evolve as a player, these lessons will undoubtedly shape his approach to both his physical and mental training. The practices of Djokovic and Sinner are not just about winning— they’re about constant growth, an unwavering focus on excellence, and a commitment to becoming the best version of oneself. And for anyone looking to elevate their own tennis journey, these are principles worth emulating.
