In a thrilling display of talent and composure, Britain’s Jack Draper secured the most significant victory of his career by overcoming Denmark’s Holger Rune in the Indian Wells final. At just 23, Draper showcased remarkable skill from the outset, sweeping aside the world number 13, Rune, with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 performance.
Claiming his first trophy at an ATP Masters event, which ranks just below the four Grand Slam tournaments, marked a memorable weekend for Draper, the top British male player. Having defeated Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals on Saturday, Draper was already poised to enter the world’s top 10 rankings for the first time, regardless of the final’s outcome against the talented 21-year-old Rune.
However, with this win, Draper doesn’t just enter the top 10—he catapults to seventh in the ATP rankings as of Monday. Reflecting on his success, Draper shared with BBC Sport, “I’m incredibly happy, obviously, and incredibly proud of my achievements this week.” His path to victory at Indian Wells was impressive, as he didn’t lose a single set across his six matches.
In the match’s decisive moments, Draper initially missed a chance to clinch the championship point with a forehand sent long. However, he quickly corrected course when Rune’s wide return allowed Draper to close out the win while rushing the net. Showing composed joy, the US Open semi-finalist smiled towards his support team and gently patted the court, acknowledging the significance of his victory.
Reflecting on his journey, Draper shared, “I said at the end of last year I wanted to be competing with the likes of Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and all the players battling for big titles. It’s one thing to say it, but it’s another to make it happen. Winning six matches at this top level against tough opponents is an achievement I’ve diligently worked toward.”
