Draper Secures Historic Indian Wells Semi-Final Clash Against Alcaraz

Jack Draper stormed into his maiden ATP Masters 1000 semi-final at Indian Wells on Friday, overcoming big-serving American Ben Shelton 6-4, 7-5 in challenging windy conditions. The British star will now face two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a blockbuster showdown, with a career-high top-10 ranking on the line if he triumphs. 

Draper, 23, showcased dominant serving and composure under pressure to dispatch Shelton, extending his flawless run at the tournament without dropping a set. The victory marks another milestone for the rising Briton, who reached his first Grand Slam semi-final at last year’s US Open but had never before advanced this far at a Masters event. 

“I’m proud, but in tennis, you’re always onto the next challenge,” said Draper, who admitted the blustery evening conditions played to his advantage. “Shelton’s serve is massive, but the slower court and wind helped neutralize it. Against Alcaraz, though, it’ll be different—these courts suit his explosive game perfectly.” 

Alcaraz Awaits in High-Stakes Rematch
World No. 2 Alcaraz booked his semi-final spot earlier with a 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) win over Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo, extending his Indian Wells winning streak to 16 matches. The Spaniard holds a 3-1 head-to-head edge over Draper, though the Briton scored a notable victory on grass at Queen’s Club in 2023. 

Draper’s path to the semi-finals included a commanding first-set display against Shelton, surrendering just three points on serve. After stumbling early in the second set—even earning a warning for angrily launching a ball into the stands—he clawed back, capitalizing on a critical Shelton double fault to break and seal the match. 



Medvedev’s Rare Celebration Steals Spotlight
In the other half of the draw, Daniil Medvedev survived a grueling three-set battle against France’s Arthur Fils, prevailing 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (9-7). Known for his subdued victories, the Russian shocked fans by leaping into the air four times after saving a match point. 

“I surprised myself—I usually don’t celebrate like that!” Medvedev laughed, referencing recent heartbreaking losses. “The adrenaline took over. I even apologized to Fils—it wasn’t personal, just pure emotion.” 

The fifth seed, a two-time Indian Wells runner-up, will meet Denmark’s Holger Rune in the semi-finals. Rune rallied past Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 5-7, 6-0, 6-3, overcoming a slow start to dominate the decider. 

Saturday’s Semis: Clash of Styles and Generations
All eyes will be on Draper and Alcaraz’s contrasting styles, with the Briton’s powerful lefty game tested against the Spaniard’s all-court brilliance. Meanwhile, Medvedev’s tactical precision faces Rune’s fearless aggression, setting the stage for a thrilling weekend in the California desert. 

“Alcaraz is the favorite here, but I’ll fight for every point,” Draper vowed. “Moments like these are why I play the sport.”