Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper put on a show last night, but it was youth that prevailed in the California desert.
Despite heading into the match with uncertainty over how his body might react after what has already been a gruelling week of tennis, the British number one outlasted the 24-time Grand Slam champion in an enthralling three-set encounter, decided by a third-set tiebreak.
And yet, despite the crushing nature of this defeat, Novak Djokovic has remained characteristically gracious in defeat.
He has now taken to Instagram to send a message directly to Jack Draper, congratulating him on his win.
Novak Djokovic’s heartfelt message after losing to Jack Draper
Speaking at his press conference, already the Serbian had been hugely complimentary of his opponent.
He claimed: “I mean, he’s been playing at a great level, actually. I have watched him a little bit, had some highlights in Dubai that he has played there a few matches.
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“And here, obviously defending champion, he really likes the conditions, suiting his game, and you could see that. I mean, he’s playing really well. I mean, he’s confident and he was always confident and physically very fit. You know, just overall a great player, great guy. I wish him all the best for the rest of the tournament.”
He effectively echoed this sentiment on social media, adding: “A tough night in the desert. Respect to @jackdraper, you deserve it. Great to see you back on court fighting fit. Keep it going.
“And to everyone who supported me here this week, thank you for the energy. No place like tennis paradise. See you soon.”
Draper has since rated his own level against Djokovic, stating whether he’d been surprised by his ability to remain so competitive given that this marks just his second tournament back since the US Open last year.
Jack Draper’s phenomenal record at Indian Wells
Even before he was established as an elite player, Draper had enjoyed the conditions here at Indian Wells.
It is what helped him reach the fourth round on his debut at the event back in 2023, what helped him win the title last year, and what is helping him during this current run, having just reached the quarter-finals.
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This remains his most successful Masters 1000 event by some distance, not just because it is the only one he has ever won.
Before this tournament began, he boasted a 9-2 winning record, having since extended that to 12-2 with his three wins so far.
This gives Draper a win percentage of just shy of 86% at Indian Wells. The closest competitor is the Cincinnati Open, although his 75% win rate is somewhat skewed, given he has only ever played there once.
