What Defines a Strong Clay-Court Player?

The French Open has historically posed challenges for British players, but this year, Jack Draper's impressive performance on clay raises questions about the key qualities that make a successful clay-court competitor.

As the excitement for the 2025 French Open builds, tennis fans eagerly await to see if British players can break through on the clay courts of Roland Garros. Central to this narrative is Jack Draper, who has made a name for himself during the recent clay-court season, notably reaching the Madrid Open final despite ultimately falling to Casper Ruud in a gripping three-set match.

While British success on clay has been limited, with the last singles champion being Sue Barker in 1976, Draper's journey marks a pivotal moment for the country's tennis representation. Notably, last year saw all six British players exit in the first round at the French Open, underscoring the struggle for success on this surface. Nonetheless, British number one Dan Evans had expressed optimism about the current crop's potential on clay, calling it their best opportunity in years.

But what does it take to thrive on the clay?

**Endurance and Fitness**
Clay courts naturally lead to longer rallies due to the slower surface, necessitating superior fitness and stamina. Iga Swiatek stands out in this regard, with her remarkable speed allowing her to cover the court and prepare her powerful forehand effectively. Draper's commitment to enhancing his fitness has also played a crucial role in his recent achievements, particularly as he previously struggled on clay, even retiring injured during his French Open debut.

To ensure his physical readiness, Draper has enlisted experienced professionals, including physio Shane Annun and fitness trainer Matt Little, to join his team. Their support proved vital during his successful run through challenging matches, including three five-set encounters at the Australian Open, and showcased his ability to rise to the occasion, pushing through fatigue to secure crucial victories.

**Mastery of Spin**
Another critical aspect of excelling on clay is the ability to impart spin on the ball. Legendary Rafael Nadal's trademark forehand demonstrates the power of spin on clay, propelling opponents back and forcing errors as they attempt to respond to the unpredictable bounce. By employing technique that maximizes spin, players can dictate points and gain an advantage through tactical placement.

Michael Chang, a Roland Garros champion, eloquently articulated how expert manipulation of angles forces opponents into difficult positions, making it easier for the player to capitalize on openings for aggressive shots.

**Sliding Technique and Movement**
Sliding is also paramount—enabling players to transition effectively and maintain balance during rallies. Practicing sliding techniques is essential for honing the agility needed for competitive play. Ahead of the clay season, Draper worked on sliding drills with fellow Brit Jacob Fearnley, which helped to strengthen their movement skills.

Heather Watson highlighted the importance of sliding into shots, emphasizing that it's crucial to maintain proper form to prevent injuries. The ability to slide and adjust is vital for taking control during rallies.

**Investing in Long-Term Development**
Despite possessing only a fraction of clay courts in Britain compared to countries like Spain, efforts are being made to enhance young players' training opportunities. Engagements with facilities in Spain illustrate a commitment to fostering talent, while players like Andy Murray benefitted from early exposure to clay surfaces and tournaments abroad. Draper shares a similar background, recalling his successes on clay from a young age.

With mounting anticipation for the French Open, the question remains: can Draper and his compatriots harness the skills needed for clay-court success and reshape Britain's standing in tennis history? Fans will be watching closely as the tournament unfolds.