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Alcaraz and Draper Shock at BNP Paribas Open

3/12/2026

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Summary

Alcaraz Advances Quarter-finals

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the BNP Paribas Open quarter-finals in Indian Wells by defeating Casper Ruud 6-1, 7-6(2).
Alcaraz dominated the first set and carried momentum into the second set despite Ruud's stronger performance there.
Alcaraz will face Cameron Norrie next after Norrie defeated Rinky Hijikata.
In another match, Jack Draper defeated Novak Djokovic 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(5) to continue his title defense.

Summary

Alcaraz Sparks 'Big-3' Debate

Carlos Alcaraz's victory over Casper Ruud at the BNP Paribas Open sparked discussions about a new 'Big-3' in tennis, featuring Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Joao Fonseca.
Alcaraz is 15-0 this season and says he enjoys the competition.
He faced criticism for suggesting lower-ranked players elevate their game against him, drawing mixed reactions online.
Alcaraz will next play Cameron Norrie, who leads their head-to-head 5-3.

History

Historical Context

The BNP Paribas Open, established in 1974, marked a pivotal moment in professional tennis, featuring 96 players and a $100,000 prize. Influenced by icons like Billie Jean King and Arthur Ashe, the tournament evolved into a major event, now attracting over 450,000 attendees annually. Carlos Alcaraz's rise alongside Jannik Sinner and Joao Fonseca signals a new era in tennis, reminiscent of past transformations in the sport.

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Alcaraz Advances Quarter-finals

Carlos Alcaraz advanced to the BNP Paribas Open quarter-finals in Indian Wells by defeating Casper Ruud 6-1, 7-6(2).
Alcaraz dominated the first set and carried momentum into the second set despite Ruud's stronger performance there.
Alcaraz will face Cameron Norrie next after Norrie defeated Rinky Hijikata.
In another match, Jack Draper defeated Novak Djokovic 4-6, 6-4, 7-6(5) to continue his title defense.

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