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'I was bamboozled!' – Jack Draper survives Moutet’s chaos to book Alcaraz clash in Rome

Originally posted on TennisUpToDate.com | Last updated May 13, 2025 5:40 PM ET

Jack Draper overcame a tough fourth-round challenge at the Rome Open against the tricky Corentin Moutet, having to recover from a forgettable first set before securing a 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory. The world No. 5 secured another appearance in the quarterfinals of a Masters 1000 event, where he will face 4-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Despite the significant ranking difference with the world No. 83 Frenchman, as a good clay-court specialist in good inspired form, Moutet posed a significant challenge to Draper. In the second set, Moutet seemed unyielding on his serve, but in the defining moment, it was the Brit who maintained better composure.

The 26-year-old Frenchman has always been characterized by an unpredictable game, combining constant slices and dropshots in an unorthodox manner, and it is even common to see him use underarm serves. Moutet's playing style presented a significant challenge for Draper.

"Honestly, I was a bit bamboozled at the start, to be honest. I haven't played someone like that, well, ever, I don't think," the 23-year-old player admitted after the match in a conversation with Sky Sports. "I felt like I was on a string, like I didn't know what I was doing. And then I came out in the second set and just fought for every point and found a way in the end to pick up my level and it was a good one to come through. It feels good.

"You don't know what's happening shot to shot. You can almost get sucked into his way of playing. I was all over the court,” he added. “At one point, I was looking at the slides that I've been doing in one game. I was literally covering the whole court with drop shots. I don't know what was going on. I've got a dizziness from it.”

"Credit to Corentin. He honestly played a great match. To come through that one was amazing. I've got to keep on pushing hard [for] every point and I will do that."

The next round will be against a well-recognized rival, none other than Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz. So far, they have had 5 encounters, with a 3-2 head-to-head record favoring Alcaraz. However, their last meeting was a victory for Draper in the semifinals of Indian Wells, a tournament he ended up winning, his first Masters 1000 title.

This time will be their first encounter on clay courts, where Alcaraz undoubtedly has the advantage. The 2024 Roland Garros champion is seeking his 10th appearance in the semifinals of a Masters 1000 event, and like Draper, third of the season, including one title.

Draper digs deep

Number 5 seed @jackdraper0 comes from a set down to defeat Moutet 1-6 6-4 6-3#IBI25 pic.twitter.com/BLyps5NW0y
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) May 13, 2025