Jack Draper Faces Carlos Alcaraz after Beating Ben Shelton
Indian Wells
March 14, 2025
Jack Draper screamed to the vast desert skies as if to confirm his arrival as one of the world’s very best.
And you could understand such an ecstatic reaction after Jack defeated a second big-name American at Indian Wells.
Draper will reach the top ten for the first time if he can defeat reigning Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz next time out.
And even if that mouth-watering semi-final contest proves a step too far for plucky Jack, he has already gone deeper than ever before at an ATP Masters 1000 tournament.
It’s all coming together for the London boy. His body is suddenly robust. His mind is increasingly fearless. The booming serve is a weapon – and the deft versatility a delight.
Jack Draper is going to be a threat to any opponent at Wimbledon 2025. The iconic Centre Court crowd will go wild for its new favourite son.
For now generous America finds itself applauding in sporting admiration as the Englishman takes out formidable home favourites.
First Taylor Fritz fell by the wayside. And now big-serving Ben Shelton has had a taste of Draper’s own power. The British underdog absorbed 143mph missiles – and returned them with interest.
Crucially, Draper had no problem coming to the net to press home his advantage when his own unerring serve found its mark. His newfound confidence seemed to ooze from every pore.
After sending Shelton on his way with a warm hug, Draper reflected on his 6-4, 7-5 victory with a familiar blend of pleasant surprise and steely satisfaction.
‘I didn’t know what to expect today, honestly,’ Jack explained. ‘He’s an incredible showman with weapons, and his serve is obviously huge.
‘This means so much to me. It’s why I’m playing – why I put all the hard work in with my team. To play matches in places like this.
‘I keep on going. I want more. And I’m looking forward to the next match already.’
Jack Draper’s incredible run at Indian Wells is leaving us all looking forward to Wimbledon 2025 as well.
We’ve already speculated in a previous blog about the possibility of a Draper versus Alcaraz showdown on Centre Court at Wimbledon 2025.
Now we can enjoy precisely that match-up in America – as a delicious entree to the most meaningful action of the European summer.
Will you be on Centre Court for the most dramatic showdowns on Wimbledon’s historic grass?
We can get you some of the best seats in the house to make your Wimbledon 2025 experience even more memorable.
Jack Draper versus Carlos Alcaraz could become one of the top rivalries in world tennis going forward.
Watch the new generation thrill us all at Indian Wells. And start arranging your trip to Wimbledon 2025. Savour the history and glamour of the All England Club – where royalty and movie stars rub shoulders.