Jack Draper is heading into the Miami Open with the belief that he can “beat anyone,” fueled by his recent triumph at Indian Wells. The British No. 1, who climbed to a career-high world ranking of seventh, secured his first ATP 1000 Masters title by defeating Holger Rune in straight sets at the BNP Paribas Open, marking the biggest victory of his career.
With his confidence soaring, Draper earned a bye through the first round at the Miami Open, where he aims to make history as only the eighth man—and the first Brit—to complete the prestigious Sunshine Double by winning both Indian Wells and Miami back-to-back.
“There are a lot of incredible players in this draw,” Draper said in an interview with Sky Sports. “Winning at Indian Wells has given me the belief that I can beat anyone. But there’s still a long way to go, starting with my first match against a very tough player. I’m confident in myself, but I know it’s not going to be easy.”
The 23-year-old’s victory at Indian Wells has provided him with renewed confidence, and he has enjoyed celebrating the achievement with his family and team. “It’s been amazing to celebrate with my family and team, and to feel that pride,” Draper added. “But I also know I’ve been working for this moment for a long time, and I believe I can do it again. I’m focused on moving forward and starting strong here.”
Draper heads into the Miami Open feeling physically healthy, mentally strong, and emotionally ready to continue his journey. Should he succeed in Miami, he would join tennis greats such as Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, and Pete Sampras as part of an elite group of players who have won the Sunshine Double.
Reflecting on his Indian Wells success, Draper pointed out several key moments that helped build his confidence throughout the tournament. “The first match against Joao Fonseca was special; I believe he’s going to be a top player in the future, and the atmosphere that day really set the tone for me,” Draper explained. “Then, against Taylor Fritz, everything started to click, especially after some of the early season injuries. That match helped boost my confidence.”
He also noted the significance of his win over Carlos Alcaraz, describing it as a major milestone in his career. “Beating Alcaraz, someone who has won it twice already, was huge for me,” Draper said.
When asked if there was a match he felt fully confident in approaching, Draper mentioned the final. “By the time I got to the final, I’d been playing great tennis all week. I’d had a bit of a wobble in the second set against Carlos, but to close out that match and know I could do it in the final was huge for me.”
Draper’s journey continues on Saturday, as he faces Jakub Mensik in his opening match at the Miami Open. His assistant coach, Alex Ward, praised Draper’s achievement, saying, “It’s a massive accomplishment. I always believed he could win it, but to see him handle the pressure in the Alcaraz match and play such great tennis in the final was impressive.”
Ward, who has supported Draper during his journey, emphasized the 23-year-old’s relentless hunger to improve. “He doesn’t waste any practices, and those small improvements over time add up,” Ward said. “At 6ft 4in, and as a lefty, Jack has a lot of physical advantages, and his development, especially defensively, makes him a dangerous player.”
When asked if Draper has what it takes to win a Grand Slam this season, Ward was optimistic. “He hasn’t been knocking on the door for years like some players, but with the way his game is progressing and his physicality improving, I don’t see why not.”
