British tennis star Jack Draper moved into the last 16 of the Indian Wells Masters after an impressive straight-sets win on Monday.
The British number one defeated Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5. The victory sets up a major fourth-round clash with 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
Draper Shows Strong Form
Draper dominated the opening set and won it in just 32 minutes. Cerundolo responded in the second set and broke Draper early to gain momentum.
The Argentine later served for the set at 5-4. However, Draper fought back strongly. He won the next three games and secured the match on his first match point.
The 24-year-old recently returned to the ATP Tour after an eight-month absence due to an arm injury. Despite the victory, Draper admitted he is still rebuilding his confidence.
“I’m only just reaching the point where I can play without pain,” Draper said. “It will take time before my tennis returns to its best level.”
Djokovic Awaits in the Next Round
Draper will now face world number three Djokovic in the next round. The Serbian advanced after defeating American Aleksandar Kovacevic 6-4, 1-6, 6-4.
Draper said he has admired Djokovic for many years.
“I’ve watched him since I was a young boy,” Draper said. “In my opinion, he is the greatest player of all time.”
The two previously met during Draper’s debut at Wimbledon Championships in 2021.
Norrie Also Advances
Another British player, Cameron Norrie, also enjoyed a strong performance in the tournament.
Norrie defeated Australia’s Alex de Minaur 6-4, 6-4, knocking out the sixth seed.
The British number two produced an impressive display and secured three service breaks during the match.
Norrie will face Australian qualifier Rinky Hijikata in the next round. Hijikata advanced after beating Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik in three sets.
Raducanu Eliminated Earlier
The British successes followed disappointment for Emma Raducanu, who exited the tournament earlier.
Raducanu lost heavily to American Amanda Anisimova, winning only two games in a 52-minute defeat.
With Draper and Norrie progressing, British hopes remain strong at Indian Wells as the tournament moves into the crucial knockout rounds.
