Jack Draper began his Indian Wells title defence with a hard-fought three-set victory over Roberto Bautista Agut. The British No 1 lost the opening set 6-3 but rallied to win the final two sets 6-3 6-2. Draper, who claimed the title last year, showed resilience after a difficult start against the experienced Spaniard.

Bautista Agut broke Draper early in the first set and consolidated his advantage to take it 6-3. The 22-year-old British player responded emphatically in the second set, breaking immediately and racing to a 3-0 lead. Draper's aggressive baseline play, particularly his backhand winners down the line, proved decisive as he levelled the match.

Draper broke again in the third set's third game and despite Bautista Agut's resistance, closed out the match. The victory sets up a third-round clash as Draper continues his comeback from an eight-month injury lay-off. His previous Indian Wells triumph included wins over world No 1 Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune, making this year's defence a significant test of his recovery.