Jack Draper says he is a person who likes to ‘keep things simple’ after announcing the departure of coach Wayne Ferreira.
The British world No.25 had been working with the South African since April but now wants a more streamlined team guiding him on the Tour. Two-time Australian Open semi-finalist Ferreria is a former top 10 player who has also worked with Frances Tiafoe.
Speaking about his decision on Saturday during his pre-tournament press conference at the US Open, Draper explained having two coaches was becoming difficult for him. He will continue working alongside coach James Trotman.
“Wayne coming on board was really a good decision. It was decision based on his value as a coach and obviously his experience as a player,” The Independent quoted Draper as saying.
“I’ve always been someone who likes to keep things simple. And I’d never had that kind of team dynamic before, where I’ve got two different voices and two different coaches.
“I always wanted Trots to be the one leading what I was doing.
“I just felt like it was not as simple as I liked, and I wanted one voice in my team.
“I feel like it was the right thing to probably part ways with Wayne and keep it how I want it as a player.
“So that being said my time with Wayne was amazing. I’ve learned a lot. I’ve sort of got a lot of value from him.
“I think he’s an amazing guy, and someone who, you know, will continue to be a friend.”
Earlier this month, Draper spoke highly about his former mentor during an interview with The Tennis Channel at the Cincinnati Masters where he reached the quarter-finals. He described Ferriera as somebody with ‘incredible value‘ and who urged him to be more aggressive during matches.
Draper will play his opening match at the US Open on Tuesday against China’s Zhang Zhizhen.
