Novak Djokovic has praised Jack Draper's performance after crashing out of Indian Wells to the British number one.
It was the first time the Serbian legend had lost to Draper in his career, with the match stretching beyond two and a half hours.
The 24-year-old British player emerged victorious, prevailing 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (5) in a nail-biting decider.
The left-hander's breakthrough against the 24-time Grand Slam champion represents a landmark moment in his burgeoning career.
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Speaking after the game, Djokovic praised Draper’s performance.
He said: "He’s playing really well. He’s confident and he was always confident and physically very fit.
"Just overall a great player, great guy.
"I wish him all the best for the rest of the tournament."
Novak Djokovic was visibly tired, frequently resting on his racket between points | GETTYThe victory keeps the defending champion firmly on course as he bids to retain his title at the prestigious California tournament.
Djokovic claimed the opening set 6-4 after a hard-fought battle.
However, the British number one responded immediately by converting his second break point opportunity in the first game of the second set.
The Serbian veteran broke back to level, and Draper found himself under pressure at 40-0 down in the eighth game before recovering to hold serve.
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Jack Draper emerged victorious after an enthralling contest | GETTYThe match remained close before Djokovic's errors in the tiebreak ultimately sealed his fate.
Following his triumph, Draper told a press conference in California: "It was a crazy match. I think both of us gave it our all.
"Just overwhelmed to obviously beat Novak, someone I have watched and admired and idolised since I was a kid.
"Just very grateful to be in this situation and go again tomorrow."
Five facts for tennis fans | GETTY/PADjokovic began to look exhausted as the game progressed into the closing stages.
Draper added: "I’m really proud of where I’m at with my game.
"I was saying to my coach I still think my level could be a lot better, to be honest. Not so much with the tennis but more my mentality on the court.
"It’s tough when you haven’t been on the match court for a while, especially against top, top players in the world again. They make you feel uncomfortable. And, even though today is a big win, it’s also a small win in my recovery and coming back to playing and being the type of player I want to become."
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