As the French Open nears, tennis enthusiasts are keenly observing the skills required for success on clay courts, a surface often seen as a hurdle for players from Britain. In 2025, Jack Draper, a rising star in British tennis, has made headlines with his strong performance at the Madrid Open, where he finished as a finalist against Casper Ruud. Historically, clay courts haven’t been kind to British players, with Andy Murray being the last to reach the French Open final in 2016 and Sue Barker being crowned champion back in 1976. Last year, all six British players exited in the first round, highlighting the difficulty faced on this surface.
Success on clay demands specific attributes, particularly in fitness and stamina due to longer rallies and the need for extensive movement. A prime example is Iga Swiatek, the four-time French Open champion, whose exceptional speed on court allows her to recover quickly and set up powerful shots. Draper has prioritized fitness training as well, hiring experts from Murray's past team to enhance his performance and durability.
Another essential aspect of mastering clay is the ability to hit with spin. Rafael Nadal, a clay-court legend, utilizes his famous forehand to deliver heavy topspin shots that not only elevate the ball but disrupt opponents' timing and positioning. According to 1989 Roland Garros champion Michael Chang, Nadal excels at manipulating angles to keep his rivals off balance, a strategy that could benefit emerging British players.
Sliding and movement are also crucial skills on clay. Those who can slide effectively into shots are able to return balls from defensive positions and react more quickly to go on the offense. This year, Draper has been training specifically on sliding techniques, ensuring he maintains control and balance during matches, which has proven beneficial as he gears up for Roland Garros.
Despite the challenges posed by limited access to clay courts in the UK—where only around 5% of the courts are clay, versus 60% in Spain—young British players are encouraged to train abroad. The Lawn Tennis Association is making strides to foster partnerships with clay court facilities in Spain, replicating the path taken by Murray who thrived on clay from a young age.
As Draper prepares for his French Open debut without significant previous experience on the surface, he remains optimistic about his potential, recognizing his previous successes in clay events as a sign that he might excel at Roland Garros. With a strong performance on the horizon, the conditions seem ripe for a British breakthrough in one of the sport's most challenging domains.
