Carlos Alcaraz has tipped British star Jack Draper to become one of the best players on the ATP Tour within the next year. Both players clash in the Indian Wells semi-final tomorrow and could be set for more major battles over the coming years.
Draper has handled the pressure of being Andy Murray’s heir exceptionally and is closing in on the world’s top 10. Reaching the final of Indian Wells by beating Alcaraz would be the latest remarkable achievement for the 23-year-old.
He defeated Alcaraz at Queen’s last year but has lost their other three meetings – although two of those losses have come while battling injuries. His opponent on Saturday expects him to be one of the world’s best players for years to come.
Alcaraz said: “Well, I think he has a lot of rhythm, a lot of pace, great shots. I think his style of play suits pretty well to these conditions well. I think his forehand with topspin bounce a lot, and big serve.
“I mean, the times that I have played against him, I think two of them he got injured, and the last one recently in Australia. So I’m just excited about playing him again.
“It seems he’s in really good shape right now. I think he’s ambitious, and he always go for it. So that’s makes him a really tough opponent. I’m pretty sure he’s gonna be one of the toughest on the tour in the future or in the next year.
“Just really happy to share these kind of moments with him. I also think it’s going to be a really good match to watch and to play.”
Alcaraz had invited Draper to practice with him in Spain last December. However, an injury prevented the Briton from accepting the invitation.
“Jack couldn’t make it at the end because of the injury. I was looking forward to practice with him for a week, week and a half,” Alcaraz said.
“But yeah, I mean, he’s a really nice guy off the court, as well, which makes it even easier to share good moments or to share a week of practising, because the level he has, he’s a really professional player. You know, off the court he always do the right things, so I think he is one of those players who is lovely to practice with.”
Content Source: www.express.co.uk