Jack Draper delivered a commanding performance to claim the Indian Wells title, capping off an extraordinary week with a dominant 6-2, 6-2 victory over Holger Rune. After an exhausting three-set battle against Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals, Draper showed no signs of fatigue, demonstrating composure and focus to secure the biggest title of his career.
Backing up a monumental win can be one of the toughest challenges in professional tennis, yet Draper rose to the occasion with ease. His aggressive baseline game and improved forehand proved too much for Rune, who struggled to gain a foothold in the match. From the outset, Draper took control, racing to a 4-0 lead in the first set and never allowing his opponent to find any rhythm.
With this victory, Draper becomes only the fifth British man to win an ATP Masters 1000 title, joining the ranks of Tim Henman, Greg Rusedski, Andy Murray, and Cameron Norrie. His success at Indian Wells follows titles in Stuttgart and Vienna, marking a remarkable rise over the past year. Now ranked No. 7 in the world, he has secured a place inside the top 10 for the first time.
Reflecting on his journey, Draper acknowledged the challenges he has overcome. He spoke about the adversity and sacrifices that have defined his path, expressing gratitude to those who have supported him along the way. His victory stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest level.
Throughout the tournament, Draper displayed the best tennis of his career. His fourth-round triumph over Taylor Fritz was particularly impressive, and his win against defending champion Alcaraz in the semifinals further underscored his ability to handle pressure. Against Rune, he remained relentless, executing his shots with precision and maintaining his intensity despite the occasion.
Rune, though a highly talented player, appeared tense early on, while Draper played with confidence and control. His first serves were consistently strong, and he dominated the baseline rallies with superior shot weight. Even as Rune attempted to mount a challenge, Draper held firm, showing great courage on crucial points and closing out the match with authority.
Earlier in the day, 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva produced an equally stunning performance in the women’s final. She rallied from a set down to defeat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, securing the biggest title of her young career. Andreeva’s triumph was particularly remarkable as she overcame both Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek, the top two players in the world, in consecutive matches to claim the trophy.
Her victory places her in elite company, joining Steffi Graf and Serena Williams as one of the few players to defeat the top two-ranked players in a single tournament before turning 18. The Russian teenager also defeated Elena Rybakina and Elina Svitolina en route to the title, further solidifying her credentials as one of the game’s rising stars.
With this win, Andreeva climbs to a career-high ranking of No. 6. Having also claimed the Dubai Open title in February, she has now won two of the first three WTA 1000 events of the season. On a 12-match winning streak, she is rapidly establishing herself as a genuine contender for major titles.
Both Draper and Andreeva leave Indian Wells with breakthrough victories that signal their potential to be future grand slam champions. Their performances throughout the tournament showcased not only their immense talent but also their ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
