Draper made the most of the only break in the first set to take an early lead against the big-hitting Shelton but had to fight back after falling behind 0-3 in the second. The 22-year-old American was unusually wayward on his serve and paid a heavy price for a pair of late double faults, including one on break point for Draper, when serving at 5-5 in the second set.
Jack Draper has booked his place in an ATP Masters 1000 semi-final for the first time after defeating American Ben Shelton in straight sets at the BNP Paribas Open.
“I didn’t know what to expect today, honestly,” Draper said. “I’d hit with Ben maybe once or twice, but very short practices. I’ve obviously watched a lot of him, he’s an incredible showman [with] weapons … can hit a winner from anywhere. The serve’s obviously huge. He’s a great competitor and he’s been really consistent.