The British number one battled past the Serbian legend in a gruelling three-set contest on Wednesday (11.03.26) to keep the defence of his title alive and was delighted to beat a player he considers as an inspiration for the first time in his career.

Draper told reporters: "Just an incredible feeling.

"I'm out here against Novak, to me the greatest tennis player there is, and someone I've been admiring and watching since I was a little kid.

"So to do that, I was just incredibly proud of myself. It gives me so much confidence. I still don't feel like I'm playing anywhere near the way I want to play.

"I came out here tonight and I won that match through determination and trying to problem solve and do my best and have a great attitude."

Draper fought back from a set down to claim victory and admits that he was "overwhelmed" to be at the tournament after struggling with an arm injury that curtailed his season last year.

The world number 14 told Sky Sports Tennis: "I'm a bit overwhelmed. Just to be here at Indian Wells is a blessing after the hell I went through with the arm injury I had.

"I still feel like I'm struggling with the way I want to play. I'm struggling with my confidence in my game. I'm trying to problem-solve and be more aggressive. I was waiting for him to miss a lot of the time.

"I picked it up a bit in the second and third [sets]. I tried to put more pace on the ball and Novak is someone who won't just give it you. I had a lot of will power and determination, so hopefully I can get better from here."