Jack Draper has reached a Masters 1000 semi-final for the first time (Image: Getty)
Novak Djokovic’s prediction has come true after the British star booked a crunch showdown with . Draper downed American Ben Shelton in straight sets at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells to reach a maiden Masters 1000 semi-final. He will face second seed Alcaraz in the final four after the Spaniard overcame Argentina’s Francisco Cerundolo, also in straight sets.
Draper, 23, has made great strides in the last 12 months, which has seen him make the semi-finals of the US Open and the fourth round of the in January. His progress confirms a prediction by back in 2021 when the pair met in the first round at . The then 19-year-old took the first set off the Serbian great, whose class and experience eventually told as he won in four sets.
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The pair spoke in private after the match, with Djokovic telling Draper that he “can have a great career”. Draper told the media at the time: “I agree with him. There’s a lot of holes in my game he exposed but what better lesson than to play the No.1 player in the world on Centre Court at .
“I can learn a lot from his advice to me because if there’s anyone who can give it, it’s him. He’s one of the greatest players of all time.”
Djokovic was just as glowing when he spoke publicly about Draper, saying: “He’s tall, he’s strong. He’s got that lefty serve that is very awkward for right-handed players to face, particularly on grass.
Novak Djokovic was full of praise for Draper after their Wimbledon meeting in 2021 (Image: Getty)
“I thought he was behaving nice on the court. He was backing himself. It was a really nice atmosphere. I think he’s got an all-around game really. A very good flat backhand, also a good forehand.
“Maybe his movement could improve I think. But he’s still young. There’s always room for improvement.”
Draper’s progress has stalled at times due to injuries, but he is finally proving that Djokovic’s words are correct as he showed his class against Shelton. Facing four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz will be a truer test of Draper’s current standing in the men’s game. and Holger Rune will meet in the other semi-final.