Jack Draper upsets Carlos Alcaraz to reach Indian Wells final
British star Jack Draper advances to his first Masters 1000 final, breaking into ATP Top 10.
Jack Draper delivered a stunning performance at the BNP Paribas Open, defeating two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz 6-1, 0-6, 6-4 to advance to his first Masters 1000 final. This victory propels Draper into the ATP Top 10 rankings for the first time in his career.
Draper started the match with remarkable intensity, securing the first set 6-1. Alcaraz responded emphatically in the second set, winning 6-0. The decisive third set saw Draper regain control, ultimately clinching the match.
Reflecting on his performance, Alcaraz acknowledged that nerves played a significant role in his loss. He admitted, “I am upset about myself, about the way that I approached the match, the way that I felt during the whole day, that I couldn’t calm down myself.”
This win is particularly significant for Draper, who has faced recent challenges with injuries and inconsistent performances. His perseverance has now paid off, marking a milestone in his career. Draper expressed profound emotion following his victory, stating, “Relief, joy, just a huge feeling of big emotion.”
In the final, Draper will face Holger Rune, who defeated Daniil Medvedev in the other semifinal. Rune leads their head-to-head record 1-0, having won their previous encounter 6-4, 6-2 in the quarterfinals of the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati.
As Draper prepares for this crucial match, his recent form and newfound confidence position him as a formidable contender for the title.
Inside the Baseline…
Draper’s win wasn’t just about shot-making or strategy. It was about belief. The kind that builds in silence, through injuries, setbacks, and moments where doubt lingers louder than confidence. Against a player like Alcaraz, who thrives in chaos, staying composed is the hardest battle. But this was a performance that was a reminder that momentum is fragile, pressure is real, and sometimes, the one who’s struggled the most is the one who’s ready to perform in the toughest moments.
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