Wimbledon 2026: Jack Draper worries over injury toll as he looks to Andy Murray for guidance

Former British number one Draper has played just 15 matches in the past year because of a bone bruise in his serving arm and tendinitis in his knee.

As a result, he has dropped to 160th place in the world ranking.

Reaching the Eastbourne semi-finals in his comeback tournament last week – not played since April – was a promising sign.

The rigors of the five-set match will be a stern test of Draper’s fitness, especially in a plum first-round draw against American sixth seed Fritz.

Draper has turned to former British world number one Andy Murray for guidance in dealing with his injury setback and the expectations he may face from home fans at Wimbledon.

In May, Draper announced that he had brought the two-time Wimbledon champion – his childhood idol – into his coaching team for the grass-court season.

Murray told BBC Sport earlier this month that he wanted the partnership to be a long-term arrangement – and Draper feels the same way.

“Being around him helps a lot. Having him here, being in my presence, not just now, but the last few weeks, has really helped my confidence,” said Draper.

“It hasn’t been an easy time at all. (Murray) being around to help guide me through this time, to get me back on the court, to get me back into competition, was very, very special.

“I think this is just the beginning. I think it’s going to be a great partnership.”