Draper’s rise over the previous yr has been strong and regular.
His first trophy got here on the Stuttgart grass in June final yr, adopted by an ATP 500 hard-court title in Vienna in October.
His run to the US Open semi-finals captured the eye of the broader British public, though his nerves have been illustrated by vomiting on court docket in a defeat by eventual champion Jannik Sinner.
Draper started seeing a “respiration coach” to assist clear up the difficulty, and he pointed to the way in which he got here by means of the third set in opposition to Alcaraz for example of his improved composure.
“I had a number of doubts earlier than the Indian Wells remaining questioning if would really feel the identical issues – however I did not,” he mentioned.
“I used to be actually sturdy and centered on my respiration and issues I might management. That is what I used to be actually happy with.”
The following step from Masters champion is a logical one – turning into a Grand Slam champion.
Successful Indian Wells isn’t any assure of future main success however as Dominic Thiem, Naomi Osaka and Bianca Andreescu have proven, coming by means of a 96-player subject of the easiest opponents is a powerful indicator.
Exhausting courts have been Draper’s most profitable floor, however the subsequent two majors are on the French Open clay-courts and Wimbledon grass.
Thus far he has struggled on clay, however his improved footwork ought to assist, whereas the more and more harmful serve and groundstrokes are suited to grass-court success.
“I nonetheless really feel I’ve so much to show on the clay,” Draper added.
“I did not get it going final yr, however I do not see why I can not be pushing the very best gamers on that floor.
“As for grass, I really feel my recreation has improved massively since final yr.”
