The mention of nicky draper makes tennis fans think of the influential woman who stands behind Britain’s up-and-coming star, Jack Draper. But who exactly is this ex-junior champion and coach, what does her story entail, and how does she relate to Roger Draper? Let’s find out.
Nicky Draper is known mainly as the mother of top-ranked tennis player Jack Draper. However, she is much more than a supportive parent—she’s a former British junior champion, coach, and early mentor. The synergy of nicky draper tennis, her age, her marriage—and eventual split—from tennis executive roger draper, plus questions about her nicky draper maiden name, are all topics worth exploring.
Nicky Draper Background
Nicky, real name Nicola Entract, was born around 1970 and was one of Britain’s leading junior players. She won numerous national junior titles at a number of different ages, making her one of the superb players of her time.
After her playing career, she transitioned seamlessly into coaching, as a tennis coach at club facilities, including Sutton Tennis and Squash Club. Her coaching career put her right in the middle of her family’s sporting world.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nicola Draper (nee Entract) |
| Known As | Nicky Draper |
| Maiden Name | Nicola Entract |
| Age | Approximately 55 (Born in 1970) |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Former junior tennis champion, Tennis coach |
| Famous For | Mother and early coach of Jack Draper |
| Relationship Status | Formerly married to Roger Draper |
| Children | Jack Draper (Tennis Player), Ben Draper |
| Known Associations | Roger Draper (former CEO of LTA), Sutton Tennis Club |
| Notable Contribution | Coaching Jack Draper from a young age |
| Current Involvement | Active in tennis coaching and supporting youth development |
Nicky Draper Tennis Career
Nicky Draper tennis success is overshadowed by her son’s meteoric rise to fame, but her own is important. As a young girl, she dominated British junior tournaments. Early in her career as a teacher, she specialized in coaching very young kids—one of whom was to be her own son, Jack.
Nicky taught at family events, club sessions, and even taught Jack the game prior to age two, attributing his phenomenal hand‑eye coordination at an early age. She still coaches and is an active presence in the tennis world nowadays.
Age and Personal Life
Evident from public sources, Nicky was born in 1970, so she should be approximately 55 in 2025. She has lived tennis and family rather than commitments or hobbies, so I have no idea what she has done for day-to-day’s purpose.
Nicky’s childhood consisted of living in Oxfordshire and Dorset, where she competed at county level at tennis. Subsequently, she married Roger Draper, past Chief Executive of Sport England and the LTA, and became Nicky Draper. There were two sons, Jack and Ben Draper.
Although divorced, both are still actively involved in tennis and actively support their sons’ activities.
Roger and Nicky Draper
Roger Draper is a key British sport figure. He served as the Chief Executive of Sport England (2003-2006) followed by the Lawn Tennis Association (2006-2013). He pioneered projects such as a national talent-ID system and mini-tennis initiatives created to engage young people on tennis.
Roger and Nicky got to know one another via tennis. Their mutual love sculpted a robust sporting ethos within their household. Even though they divorced afterward, they co-parent and share mutual concern in promoting Jack and Ben. Both of them went to Jack’s significant games—such as stadium finals or Grand Slams—even though they go separately.
Roger and Nicky draper together crafted a supportive tennis environment where both sons grew into earnest players.
Nicky Draper Maiden Name
Nicky Draper birth name is Nicola Entract. She spent her formative years competing in county tennis with this name for Oxfordshire and Dorset. As she married Roger, she became Nicky Draper—a name she carries with her to this day as a coach and public figure.
The change is more than mere name switching. As “Entract,” she achieved competition success as an athlete; as “Draper,” she gained mentorship and motherhood on the tennis courts.
Public Perception and Influence
Nicky is recognized by the tennis community as a retired junior sensation and working coach, but her public image soared during Jack Draper’s major matches—such as the 2024 US Open semi-final—when the public and media noticed her in the crowd.
Journalists point out that even though she remains humble, she quietly controls the show behind the scenes. In the Indian Wells Open, for instance, she stood by Jack even though she did not desire the spotlight. Her quiet confidence has gained her credibility in the British tennis fraternity.
Nicky Draper in Jack Draper Career
Nicky Draper influence is evident in Jack’s career:
- First coach: She introduced him to mini-tennis as a toddler, frequently sharing coaching responsibilities with other club professionals.
- Mentor: Despite her ex-husband’s breakup, she remained involved in Jack’s training.
- Family team: Through the years, there were numerous accolades for Jack’s toughness and fire—qualities attributed to his family support.
In interviews, Jack regularly speaks fondly of her:
“He got the racket … you could see from quite a young age that Jack had amazing hand‑eye coordination,” Nicky Draper said.
Even though Jack’s own career is solidifying—Grand Slam semi‑finals and Masters 1000 titles—Nicky is still there, a guiding and discreet hand behind the scenes.
Conclusion
Nicky Draper is owed more than her current title of “Jack Draper’s mum.” She was a former junior champion, tennis coach, and mentor who forged his route in deep ways. Her tale—from Entract to Draper—unfolds as one of tennis passion, family, and undying devotion.
Her marriage—and ongoing association—with roger draper forged a strong base in British tennis. Although their marriage failed, their combined impact on their sons continues.
Now at around 55 years old, Nicky remains at the helm of coaching and guiding the next generation, a part of Jack’s story: she is a champion, educator, mother, and silent contributor to one of the brightest tennis careers Britain has produced.
Why Nicky Draper Matters
- Her own legacy: National junior titles and extensive experience on court.
- As a coach: She shaped Jack’s earliest development and remains a guiding influence.
- Family synergy: Together with Roger Draper, she created a tennis-centered home life.
- Public role model: Modest media presence, unwavering support, and professionalism.
Overall, nicky draper entire story is a demonstration of determination, devotion to tennis, and the strength of unassuming devotion. Not only is she part of her son’s triumph—she is a tennis teacher and champion in her own right.
