Jack Draper continues to impress on the Grand Slam stage after he beat Gael Monfils in the second round of the French Open, with John McEnroe full of praise for the Brit
Tennis legend John McEnroe has proclaimed Jack Draper a future multi-Grand Slam winner, while noting his impressive build following his advance at the French Open.
The 23-year-old Brit claimed victory in an exhilarating four-set match against Gael Monfils, the darling of the Paris crowd.
Draper, now at a career-best world No. 4, has had a breakthrough year, clinching his first-ever ATP Masters 1000 trophy by defeating Holger Rune in the 2025 BNP Paribas Open finale.
He also played in the Madrid Open final last month but fell to Casper Ruud in an intense three-setter. With his triumph over Monfils, Draper finds himself in the French Open’s third round for the first time in his career.
Sharing his insights with TNT Sports, McEnroe lauded: “I tell you one thing, he won a lot of fans tonight with the way he played and the way he acted and the way he handled the whole situation. It’s one of those matches that you’re proud to be a tennis player.
“You look back at these two guys digging that deep, you’re looking at a guy 38 years old that is still moving unbelievably well, and you see Jack Draper maturing, playing better and better on the spot.
“I mean, I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t win multiple majors. It is incredible how much he’s improving and how great a player he’s become,” reports the Express.
He wasn’t afraid to express envy over Draper’s versatility on the tennis court as well as his muscly figure, especially noticing when Draper removed his shirt post-match, as he commented on the athlete’s physique with a hint of jealousy.
“He can do everything,” McEnroe added. “He’s an excellent volleyer, the serve is huge. He took his shirt off, and I was immediately jealous. The guy is in unbelievable shape. I tell you, he’s got a lot of big things to look forward to.”
After the challenging match, Draper also shared some heartfelt words about his opponent: “It was my first time on this court, but what an experience, what a battle against someone I admire as a tennis player.
“Off the court, the guy is so nice. He’s a joker, he’s a magician, I hope he makes it back here one more time.
“I’ve played some tough ones in Grand Slams. Playing Gael and you guys as well, this is why I play tennis, to play in front of big crowds, whether they are with me or against me.
“My brain was fried out here. I’m not sure if I’m going to sleep tonight because of what he was doing out here. That’s why the players love him, not to play against him.”
