Jack Draper’s Struggle with Nausea in High-Pressure Tennis Matches
Jack Draper, a rising star in the world of tennis, has found himself facing a unique challenge during high-stakes matches. Despite his physical and mental strength, the British player often experiences nausea and vomiting when competing in major tournaments. This issue has become a recurring theme in his career, particularly at the US Open, where he has faced some of the toughest moments of his professional journey.
Draper’s latest bout of sickness occurred during his first-round match against Federico Agustín Gómez at the 2025 US Open. As he prepared to serve in the third set, he was forced to vomit on court, a moment that brought back memories of his previous struggles. Last year, during his semifinal appearance against Jannik Sinner, Draper experienced similar issues, vomiting three times during what was supposed to be a defining moment in his career.
The root of this problem appears to be a combination of physical and psychological factors. Draper has acknowledged that he has always had issues with his gut, which may contribute to his symptoms. However, he also attributes part of the problem to nervous tension, especially in high-pressure situations. “I felt physically fine,” he explained after the match. “It could be a little bit of just getting out there again, a bit of nervous tension.”
Despite these challenges, Draper remains determined to improve. He has been working on his fitness, undergoing a physical transformation that has helped him build a stronger frame. This effort is aimed at ensuring he can handle the demands of professional tennis, both physically and mentally. However, even with his improved fitness, the issue of nausea persists, indicating that the problem may be more deeply rooted in his mental state.
The Role of Anxiety in Athletic Performance
Draper has openly discussed his anxiety, acknowledging that it plays a significant role in his performance. “I’m definitely someone who is, I think, quite an anxious human being,” he said after his semifinal loss last year. This anxiety, when combined with the pressure of high-stakes matches, can lead to physical symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Experts in sports psychology have noted that anxiety can manifest in various ways, including gastrointestinal distress. Dr. Phil Hopley, a psychiatrist specializing in elite sports, explained that the body’s response to stress can trigger the release of cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare the athlete for competition. However, in some cases, this response can lead to physical discomfort, particularly in the stomach.
Hopley emphasized that Draper’s situation is not uncommon among athletes. “People sometimes talk about the gut brain and very often when people get nervous or anxious, they talk about feeling it in their guts or elsewhere,” he said. “It’s well proven as a strong link.”
Addressing the Mental Challenges
Draper has taken steps to address his mental health, recognizing that managing anxiety is crucial for his success. He has spoken about the need to work through these challenges, both on and off the court. “Tennis especially, or just any sport, is hugely mental and physical,” he said. “I try my best all the time to keep on evolving, to keep on learning.”
Working with a psychologist is one approach that could help Draper redefine his experience in high-pressure matches. By reducing the perceived pressure and making these moments feel more routine, he may be able to mitigate the physical symptoms that have plagued him.
Future Prospects and Continued Efforts
Despite the challenges, Draper remains focused on his goals. He has made it clear that he is committed to improving his performance and overcoming the obstacles that have hindered his progress. “I’ve got quite a strong mentality and I use up a lot of mental energy a lot of the time because I want it so badly,” he said.
As he prepares for future tournaments, Draper will continue to work on both his physical and mental resilience. While the issue of nausea may not be completely resolved, his determination and willingness to seek help are positive signs for his continued growth as a player.
