Jack Draper unveils new buzz cut amid injury struggles
British No 1 Jack Draper will look markedly different when he makes his full return to the tennis circuit, having shaved off his trademark brown hair in favour of a close-cropped buzz cut, reports BritPanorama.
The 24-year-old unveiled his fresh appearance on Instagram yesterday, coinciding with Valentine’s Day, as he shared the transformation with fans. This image overhaul comes during a frustrating period for the left-hander, who has struggled with injuries for the past six months following his withdrawal from the 2025 US Open due to an arm problem.
Draper’s competitive matches have been scarce as he works his way back to fitness. His most recent outing came earlier this month when Great Britain secured a comprehensive 4-0 triumph over Norway in the Davis Cup, where Draper contributed with a dominant straight-sets win against Viktor Durasovic, dispatching his opponent 6-2, 6-2.
During that tie, Draper was still sporting his brown crop fringe, meaning the dramatic hair transformation occurred in the days since. When he next takes the court in competitive action, spectators will encounter an entirely different visual presentation from the player who reached the upper echelons of the world rankings last year.
The new hairstyle is not the only change to Draper’s appearance in recent weeks. Observant supporters noted fresh ink on the player’s body when he visited an outdoor sauna in Norway prior to the Davis Cup fixture. The tattoo, located on the right side of his lower midriff, remains partially concealed beneath his shorts, leaving its exact design uncertain. Online speculation suggests it may feature a flame motif alongside his existing pieces, including a lightning bolt on his left arm and the phrase “someone said” on his left bicep.
Draper’s comeback follows what was arguably his finest season as a professional in 2025, during which he climbed to fourth in the world rankings and claimed the prestigious Indian Wells title. Reflecting on the year, Draper commented, “I think last year definitely started off amazingly well. The second half was extremely challenging, but I took a lot of belief and confidence from the first half of the year and what I achieved.” He acknowledged the road ahead would be difficult after such an extended absence but remained optimistic about his development, stating, “At the same time I’m constantly getting better and I’m constantly improving still. I hope I get to show that sooner more than later.”
As he prepares to re-enter the fray, Draper’s fresh look could serve as a symbolic new chapter in his career, reminding us how quickly the winds of change can sweep through the world of sport.
