Jack Draper upsets Taylor Fritz to reach Indian Wells quarterfinals
British rising star Jack Draper secured a significant victory over world No. 4 Taylor Fritz, advancing to the quarterfinals at the Indian Wells Open with a 7-5, 6-4 win.
British tennis sensation Jack Draper secured a significant victory at the Indian Wells Open, defeating world No. 4 and 2022 champion Taylor Fritz 7-5, 6-4 to advance to his first quarterfinal at this prestigious event. This win marks Draper’s third career Top 5 victory and underscores his rising prominence on the ATP Tour.
Draper’s performance was characterized by a dominant serve, winning 91% of points behind his first delivery and firing eight aces. He maintained composure throughout the match, converting crucial break points and showcasing his resilience, especially when Fritz attempted a late comeback in the second set.
This victory propels Draper into his third ATP Masters 1000 quarterfinal, having previously reached this stage in Montreal in 2022 and Cincinnati in 2024. Currently ranked 14th globally, Draper is on the cusp of breaking into the Top 10 for the first time, a testament to his consistent performance and dedication.
Looking ahead, Draper is set to face American Ben Shelton in the quarterfinals. Shelton, who defeated Brandon Nakashima 7-6(6), 6-1, represents another challenging opponent. The matchup between Draper and Shelton promises an exciting contest between two of the sport’s emerging talents.
Fritz, on the other hand, has experienced a mixed start to the 2025 season, struggling to find the form that led him to the Indian Wells title in 2022. Despite his efforts, he couldn’t counter Draper’s aggressive play and will be looking to regain his momentum in upcoming tournaments.
Draper’s journey has been marked by resilience, overcoming injuries that previously hindered his progress. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Draper to see if he can continue his impressive run and possibly secure his first ATP Masters 1000 title.
Inside the Baseline…
Draper’s win over Fritz felt like a statement of control, composure, and quiet confidence. There was no panic, no hesitation, just a player dictating with measured aggression and belief in his game. It’s the kind of performance that signals a shift, a young talent moving past potential and into expectation. Fritz, usually so steady on these courts, looked unsettled, unable to wrestle back control when Draper seized the big moments. With each match, Draper is proving he’s not just knocking on the door of the elite; he’s ready to step through.
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