Jack Draper faces a formidable challenge as he prepares to take on Carlos Alcaraz in the Indian Wells semifinal. Alcaraz, known for his explosive forehand and relentless energy, has been a dominant force throughout the tournament. For Draper to stand a chance, he must adopt a strategic approach that neutralizes Alcaraz’s strengths while capitalizing on his own.

One of Draper’s key strategies could involve targeting Alcaraz’s backhand. While Alcaraz’s forehand is a weapon, his backhand, though solid, may not be as imposing. By directing a significant portion of his shots to Alcaraz’s backhand side, Draper could limit the Spaniard’s ability to dictate play with his forehand. This tactic would require precision and consistency, as any loose shots could allow Alcaraz to step around and unleash his forehand.

Another crucial element for Draper would be to vary the pace and spin of his shots. Alcaraz thrives on rhythm, and disrupting that rhythm could throw him off balance. Incorporating slices, drop shots, and heavy topspin could force Alcaraz out of his comfort zone and create opportunities for Draper to take control of rallies. Additionally, Draper’s left-handed serve could be an asset, allowing him to exploit angles and pull Alcaraz wide on the return.

Draper’s movement and court positioning will also play a vital role. Alcaraz is known for his ability to cover the court and retrieve seemingly impossible shots. Draper must be prepared to engage in long rallies and maintain a high level of fitness and focus. By staying aggressive and stepping into the court whenever possible, Draper can put pressure on Alcaraz and prevent him from dictating play.

Finally, mental resilience will be a deciding factor. Alcaraz’s intensity and crowd support can be intimidating, but Draper must remain composed and confident in his game plan. Staying positive and focused, even in challenging moments, will be essential for Draper to compete at his best.

While the odds may favor Alcaraz, Draper’s tactical acumen and determination could make this a compelling contest. By executing a well-thought-out strategy and maintaining unwavering belief, Draper has the potential to challenge one of the game’s brightest stars.

Alcaraz in Indian Wells, ranking, and results in 2025

Now ranked no.3, Alcaraz has a compiled 15-2 win-loss record in 2025. Alcaraz is now competing in Indian Wells where he conquered Unknown Player bye, the world no.59 Quentin Halys 6-4 6-2, the world no.28 Denis Shapovalov 6-2 6-4

, the world no.15 Grigor Dimitrov 6-1 6-1 and the world no.26 Francisco Cerundolo 6-3 7-6(4).

Carlos Alcaraz will come up against the world no.14 Jack Draper in the semifinal. Their record is 3-1 for Alcaraz.

Carlos clinched 1 title in 2025 in Rotterdam.

The Spaniard won 18 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 2 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)

Draper in Indian Wells, ranking, and results in 2025

Ranked world no.14, Draper has managed to achieve a 11-2 record in 2025. Draper is now playing in Indian Wells where he toppled Unknown Player bye, the world no.80 Joao Fonseca 6-4 6-0, Jenson Brooksby 7-5 6-4, the world no.4 Taylor Fritz 7-5 6-4 and the world no.12 Ben Shelton 6-4 7-5.

Jack Draper will come up against the world no.3 Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinal. Their record is 3-1 for Alcaraz.

The Brit was the runner-up in Doha (Qatar ExxonMobil Open).

Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper fought against each other 4 times. Their head to head is 3-1 for Alcaraz.