Jack Draper stokes up Cam Norrie rivalry as British stars face off in Wimbledon clash - 'He won't like...'
Jack Draper replaced Cam Norrie as the new British No 1 last month
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Jack Draper feels Cam Norrie 'won't like the fact' that he has dethroned him as the British No 1 as the two compatriots prepare to face off in a blockbuster Wimbledon clash.
The 22-year-old took the top spot in the British rankings last month after winning his first ATP Tour title in the Stuttgart Open.
As a result, Draper also secured a seeded spot at Wimbledon for the first time in his career.
Norrie previously held that privilage, but heads into his second-round match with Draper now as the underdog.
Jack Draper replaced Cam Norrie as the new British No 1 last month
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Draper accepts that he now has a target on his back for his fellow Brits who want to take his spot as the nation's No 1.
And he feels it creates a 'healthy rivalry' within the British camp with everyone pushing each other to their limits.
"Obviously he won't like the fact that I'm British No. 1 now," Draper said.
"I'm a lot younger. Obviously got Dan and Cam, Andy might be stopping soon.
"Dan and Cam definitely probably won't like seeing me being British No. 1.
"I think that creates a really healthy rivalry and environment.
"Like I said, I think we all have great respect for each other. We all want to see each other succeed and do well.
"It's nice to practice with him when I can. For sure, we're all competitors, we're all individuals. We want to win. We want to do the best we can.
Jack Draper is looking to reach the third round of Wimbledon for the first time in his career
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"I think it's going to be a really competitive match on Thursday. Yeah, there won't be any love lost, for sure."
Draper went on to admit he has a 'huge respect' for Norrie and that they have a 'great relationship' off the court.
Norrie, who made the semi-finals of Wimbledon back in 2022, knows he will have to be on top form to beat his compatriot.
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"His results have been better than mine, especially over the grass court season.
"He beat Alcaraz in Queen's. I mean, I think it's pretty obvious that he's the favourite there.
"For me, it's a surprise kind of being the underdog for the first time in a while.
"I'm looking forward to the challenge. I'm going to have to play my best level to have a chance with Jack. He's playing so well at the moment."