This was illustrated during the Draper semi-final against Lorenzo Musetti in Madrid.
The Briton seemed to fade in the second set and fought to hang on to his service – then found another equipment in an equality break to increase his intensity and ensure victory.
The clay is considered to be the most physically demanding surface because its slower speed leads to longer points and more brutal competitions.
It is not the most natural surface for drape. He worked hard on his movement and the ability to slide on dirt.
Being more mobile means that he can occupy the right positions to execute his most powerful weapons.
The draper service – both in terms of power and variety – allows it to strongly start the points, but it was its forehand that really attracted the eye to Madrid.
The topspin and speed appealed to Caja Magica fans, even making some comparisons with Rafael Nadal – the recently retired “King of Clay” which won a record of 14 French open titles.
No one is suggested that Draper will have this level of success, of course, but like Nadal, he used the pace and the rebound of his forehand to disturb the opponents.
“My forehand presents itself on all surfaces, but this year on clay, that really makes a lot of damage,” said Draper.
“I try to base my game around this and my service, and to become more and more effective.”
In Madrid, Draper also found the right mixture between defense and attack, while the use of drop shooting at the right time was also an effective tool.
Despite all the positive signs, it is revealing that Draper – like all the great players who house the ambitions to win titles of the Grand Slam – have an insatiable appetite for an additional improvement.
During his post-Final press conference in Madrid, he underlined his service, his net game and his physique as areas on which he needed to work particularly.
“I'm far from where I want to be,” said Draper.
“There are a lot of things that will continue to improve and I will continue to get better and better. I believe it.”
