Jack Draper has dubbed Andy Murray's achievement of reaching the second week of 26 consecutive Grand Slams 'mind blowing' as he looks to reach the quarter-finals of the US Open tonight.
The 22-year-old goes up against Tomas Machac on Monday after reaching the fourth round for the second time in a row, having previously done so 12 months ago.
Draper is Britain's No 1 these days, with Murray now a figure of the past.
Speaking ahead of today's blockbuster clash, however, the youngster paid tribute to Murray and said his record of reaching the second week of 26 consecutive majors is 'mind blowing' and ridiculous'.
Jack Draper has dubbed Andy Murray's achievement of reaching the second week of 26 consecutive Grand Slams 'mind blowing' as he looks to reach the quarter-finals of the US Open tonight
REUTERS
“It is ridiculous," he said.
"Andy in my opinion will go down as one of the greatest players of all time. And that's exactly why.
“It's all good and well doing something once or twice, but you achieve greatness when you're consistent and Andy's one of those guys who is incredibly consistent, making finals and statistics that are just mind-blowing.
"Same with Novak Djokovic and those other guys. When I do think of Andy, a lot of people think of his big successes, but the fact he was so consistent and even making fourth round in a Grand Slam, final, quarter finals, it's a huge achievement because you're putting your mind and body through so much.
“It's tough out there, it's hot, it's long matches, it's great opponents.
"I'm full of respect and admiration for Andy, and I suppose there's a reason why his body has taken a toll because he's obviously had that consistency and put his mind and his body through so much.
“He's obviously gone on to achieve amazing things as well.
"I have that in mind that if I can just keep on going and keep on pushing myself, then I'm going to be hopefully having the type of successes that he's had.”
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Draper also says he's sensed an opportunity.
Two of the favourites for the competition, Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, have already been eliminated.
The Briton added: “I feel a really big opportunity if I stay injury free and if I keep working hard on my body and having the experiences that I'm having playing week in week out, I'm full of confidence that I will be able to get to that top level.
"It's just kind of making sure I'm doing all the right things for my mind and my body and being as professional as possible, because my game's there.
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Jack Draper has hailed Andy Murray as he prepares for his US Open round of 16 clash tonight
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"I'm working hard all the time to be better, and don't feel like I'm too far away.
“So I have just got to keep working, and hopefully over time that level will come and the results will come as well and I can be right at the top of the game with those guys.”
Meanwhile, former tennis star Tim Henman has given some advice to Draper.
He's urged his fellow Briton to 'stay focused' as he looks to etch his name into the history books.
Jack Draper has been urged to 'stay focused' by Tim Henman as he looks to boost his chances of US Open glory
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“We’ve looked at that section of the draw, and it has opened up,” Henman said.
“It’s just so important that he [Draper] really stays focused on his preparation and performance, and doesn’t get ahead of himself.
“They [players in this section of the draw] will all be aware this is a big opportunity.”
