In a commanding performance, Jack Draper triumphed over Holger Rune with a score of 6-2, 6-2 in just over an hour during the BNP Paribas Open final on Monday morning (AEDT). This victory not only marked his maiden Masters 1000 title but also secured him a spot in the ATP’s top 10 for the first time.
The 23-year-old from the UK, seeded 13th in the hard-court competition, produced an impressive 21 winners against Rune and managed to keep his unforced errors to a minimum.
Draper’s lethal left-handed serve played a crucial role in his victory, registering 10 aces, winning 21 out of 23 first-serve points, and never permitting Rune a single break point opportunity.
Jack Draper celebrating his victory at Indian Wells. Getty
“You never really know when your moment will come,” Draper reflected in his post-match comments.
“I lost in the first round here last year, so I didn’t get much chance to experience the tournament… but I’d definitely say it’s now one of my favourite tournaments.”
Following this triumph, Draper will ascend from No.14 to a career-best No.7 in the ATP rankings.
“I believe I’ve earned this,” Draper expressed.
“I wasn’t anticipating this result. I’ve invested a lot of hard work over time,” he added. “I’m immensely grateful and thrilled to be able to compete, with my body feeling healthy and my mindset being positive.”
The outcome means that Australian tennis player Alex de Minaur will drop out of the top 10, having been eliminated in the round of 16 by Francisco Cerundolo.
Alex de Minaur during his defeat to Francisco Cerundolo. Getty
Earlier this year, De Minaur reached the quarter-finals at his home grand slam and subsequently made it to the finals of the Rotterdam Open, where he was defeated by Carlos Alcaraz.
In the women’s tournament at Indian Wells, 17-year-old prodigy Mirra Andreeva secured her second consecutive Masters 1000 title by defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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