Defeating the reigning champion, Djokovic falls at Indian Wells 2026

Novak Djokovic fought hard but could not overcome his younger, more skilled opponent.

World number 3 Novak Djokovic suffered a 1-2 (6-4; 4-6; 6-7) upset defeat against Jack Draper in the round of 16 match Indian Wells 2026 on March 12, Vietnam time.

The first set was very balanced. Despite the slow court speed, both Draper and Djokovic served well, facing no break points until the 10th game—a crucial service game for the British player. The reigning Indian Wells champion suddenly faltered, faced three break points but saved only one, conceding the first set 4-6.

In the second set, Draper made an impressive start by breaking serve early in the first game. The 2001-born player later lost that break point to Djokovic, but in a pivotal game against his opponent, he played exceptionally well to win it cleanly, saved another break point, and won 6-4, pushing the match into a decisive third set.

Here, both players created thrilling developments: Draper broke serve first to lead, but at the decisive serving moment, the world number 14 played poorly, allowing Djokovic to level at 5-5. The two players had to settle the outcome in a tense tie-break.

Djokovic and Draper exchanged mini-breaks repeatedly, making the situation unpredictable. Draper reached match point first and converted it decisively after Nole mishit a shot.

The victory over Novak Djokovic sends Jack Draper into the quarterfinals of this year's Indian Wells, where the reigning champion will face Daniil Medvedev. For Djokovic, he will now focus on the Miami Open—where Nole must defend significant points as the tournament's runner-up last year.