Former IW winner Fritz dumped by Draper

Brit Jack Draper paid little heed to the past accomplishments of Taylor Fritz as he knocked the former champion out in the fourth round of the Indian Wells Masters on Wednesday.

A day after rain interruptions made a hash of the schedule, Draper got back to work with his 7-5, 6-4 upset of the world No. 4 which sent him into a breakthrough quarter-final.

The British no. 1 ran off seven straight games to claim the opening set and earn a 4-0 lead in the second; he won on a second match point, notching a third career win over top five opposition.

“It’s the best match I have played here so far in the three years I’ve been here,” the winner said.

“I moved great and competed well. There were a few moments here and there which I was brave, which I spoke to my coach about before the match. 

“Taylor is such an amazing player, so to come through in the way I did I am very proud of that.”

The lefty ranked 14th advanced in 79 minutes and now has his eye on a top 10 spot on the ATP list by reaching the final.

He will face a test against fellow young gun Ben Shelton after the brash American defeated compatriot and rival Brandon Nakashima 7-6( 6), 6-1 for a place in his third Masters 1000 quarter-final.

“I’m pleased with my performance today. There are things I’m trying to add into my game each week and I am trying to implement them this week.

“Sometimes things don’t work all the time. I make execution errors. I feel my intent has been really good this week and that has been a huge part of my success.”

Draper said he can’t wait to test himself against the local, whose sometimes cocky behavior on court makes him an acquired taste for foreigners.

“I’m very excited for that matchup,” Draper. “He brings such an amazing energy to the court, to the changing room. I will really enjoy that matchup and I am looking forward to competing.”

 Fritz, seeded third, has had his troubles this season even before going down to Draper in the Californian desert.

The former US Open finalist won the title here three years ago but failed to shine against Draper.