JACK DRAPER delivered a remarkable comeback to defeat Novak Djokovic at Indian Wells Open and reach the fourth round.
The British star fought back to win 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7-5) after a demanding two-hour-and-35-minute match.
Draper described the victory as a “mind-blowing” moment in his career.
A Special Win for Draper
Draper said defeating Djokovic means a lot to him. He has admired the Serbian champion since childhood.
Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam winner, had beaten Draper in their only previous meeting at Wimbledon Championships in 2021.
“Beating Novak is incredible,” Draper told BBC Sport.
“I grew up watching him and respecting everything he has achieved.”
Comeback After Injury Struggles
The victory feels even more important for Draper. The British player spent eight difficult months recovering from an arm injury.
This tournament is only his second event of the ATP Tour season.
Draper admitted he still wants to improve his performance but feels proud of how he handled the match.
He said the result could become a major turning point in his season.
Tough Battle on Court
Djokovic started strongly and dominated his serve early. The Serbian star won 87% of points on his first serve in the opening set.
However, Draper responded in the second set and forced a deciding third set.
One of the most memorable moments came during a 26-shot rally in the final set. The point included drop shots, lobs, and powerful smashes.
Djokovic won the rally but soon lost energy afterward.
Dramatic Finish in the Deciding Set
Draper broke Djokovic’s serve and moved ahead. But the Briton struggled when serving for the match at 5-4.
Djokovic broke back, sending the match into a tense tie-break.
Draper kept his composure and eventually sealed the victory.
Both players looked exhausted by the final point.
Djokovic Praises Draper
After the match, Djokovic admitted the long rally drained his energy.
“It cost me the next game,” he said. “I ran out of gas.”
Despite the loss, the Serbian legend praised Draper’s performance.
“He is playing at a very high level,” Djokovic added. “He is a great player and a great person.”
Quarter-Final Clash Ahead
Draper will now face former world number one Daniil Medvedev in the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, fellow British player Cameron Norrie will meet world number one Carlos Alcaraz in another key match.
Whatever happens next, Draper believes this victory could be a major moment in his comeback season.
