Jack Draper Exits Miami Open as Katie Boulter Advances to Third Round

Posted : 21 March 2026

Jack Draper’s campaign at the Miami Open ended in the second round following a 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-0) loss to Reilly Opelka. The 24-year-old Briton struggled to find an answer for the American’s powerful serving throughout the 93-minute contest. Opelka utilized his 6ft 11in frame to deliver 25 aces and 47 total winners. This result marks a setback for Draper, who recently reached the quarter-finals at Indian Wells after recovering from an arm injury.

Draper admitted after the match that he is still in the early stages of his comeback. He noted that regaining momentum will take time and consistent practice with his team. The defeat puts Draper's world ranking at risk as the tour shifts toward the clay-court season. He also lost his status as British number one to Cameron Norrie earlier this week. Draper has yet to progress beyond the second round in his career appearances at the Miami Gardens tournament.

In the women’s draw, Katie Boulter secured her place in the third round under unusual circumstances. The British number three was leading Denmark’s Clara Tauson 6-7 (4-7) 6-4 1-0 when Tauson retired due to a back injury. Boulter described the encounter as a difficult battle played in challenging weather conditions. She expressed sympathy for her opponent but remained pleased to advance in the competition. Boulter will next face either Karolina Muchova or Camila Osorio in the following round.

Other top seeds managed to avoid upsets during the Friday session in Florida. Men's world number one Carlos Alcaraz defeated teenage talent Joao Fonseca 6-4 6-4 in their first professional meeting. Alcaraz dominated at the net and saved all three break points he faced during the match. He is now scheduled to play American Sebastian Korda in the third round. Alcaraz remains a favorite to clinch the title after his recent success on the hard courts.

Defending women's champion Aryna Sabalenka also moved forward after a tough test against Ann Li. The world number one won 7-6 (7-5) 6-4 in a match that lasted over 100 minutes. Sabalenka struggled with efficiency, converting only three of her 15 break point opportunities. Meanwhile, Florida native Coco Gauff recovered from a set down to beat Elisabetta Cocciaretto 3-6 6-4 6-3. Gauff overcame 11 double faults to delight her home crowd and secure her spot in the next stage.

Jack Draper Exits Miami Open as Katie Boulter Advances to Third Round

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