British Tennis Finds New Spark as Draper Leads Home Charge at Wimbledon 2025

Wimbledon 2025 has seen a record-breaking homegrown resurgence, with seven British men reaching the second round—the nation’s best Grand Slam tally since 1997. Leading the charge is Jack Draper, the 23-year-old fourth seed, who eased past Sebastian Baez and now faces Marin Cilic in a high-stakes second-round clash

“British tennis is in a good spot,” Draper said. “Andy [Murray] has had a huge effect on the younger generation… It’s cool to be a part of that.”

Alongside Draper, Dan Evans, Jack Pinnington Jones, and Oliver Tarvet have captured the crowd’s imagination, with Tarvet earning a standing ovation despite falling to defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Fans Embrace the Hunt for the ‘Next Andy Murray’

With Andy Murray’s retirement last year, fans are eager to rally behind a new British star. Draper’s poise, power, and personality have drawn comparisons to the two-time Wimbledon champion, though he’s quick to downplay the pressure.

“I’m not trying to be the next Andy Murray,” Draper told The Times. “I focus on achieving my own potential.”

Still, tennis legends are bullish on his future:

• John McEnroe: “I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t win multiple majors.”
• Jamie Murray: “He is Britain’s next tennis superstar. No ifs or buts.”

A New Era Fueled by Grassroots Investment

Veteran fans like John and Sarah Pickthorn credit the Lawn Tennis Association’s funding for the recent surge. After decades of watching foreign stars dominate, they’re thrilled to see British talent finally breaking through.

\“It gives you that extra bit of excitement when they go through,” said Sarah.

From Henmania to Murray Madness, British tennis has long craved a consistent contender. With Draper’s rise and a wave of promising talent behind him, the next chapter may already be underway.