Marin Cilic Shocks Draper with Vintage Display at Wimbledon 2025
What a story we’ve witnessed today at Wimbledon 2025 — Marin Cilic, the 36-year-old Croatian veteran, has turned back the clock in sensational fashion, defeating Britain’s great hope Jack Draper in four intense sets: 6-4, 6-3, 1-6, 6-4. And honestly, it wasn’t just a win — it was a reminder of what experience, grit, and sheer passion for the sport can still do on the biggest of stages.
Let’s rewind a bit. Draper came into this tournament as the fourth seed, widely tipped to reach the latter stages, especially with Murray now retired and the crowd’s full attention squarely on him. He had been in great form too, fresh off a strong run at Queen’s. But today, on Court One, the atmosphere shifted. The home fans came for a Draper triumph, but they witnessed something very different — a Cilic masterclass.
From the outset, Cilic was dialed in. The serve was booming, the returns were deep, and tactically he was spotless. He relentlessly pushed Draper behind the baseline and targeted the Brit’s backhand, making him uncomfortable and reactive. Draper, for all his talent and athleticism, struggled to find his rhythm. He survived three break points early on but eventually cracked under pressure, losing the first set — and then the second — before he could truly settle.
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The third set saw a glimpse of the Draper we know. He began to use his forehand more aggressively and took control of the rallies, giving the crowd something to believe in. For a moment, it looked like the tide might turn. But Cilic, with decades of experience behind him, weathered the storm. He composed himself in the fourth, found a crucial break, and held his nerve to close out the match.
And you could see what it meant to him. Speaking on court after the match, Cilic was emotional. He talked about the “long journey” he’s had — from being a finalist here back in 2017 to dealing with injuries and a major ranking drop. Two years ago, many thought his career at the top level was done. But he never gave up. He trained, competed in Challengers, and slowly rebuilt. Today was his reward.
One of the most touching moments? When he spoke about his kids being there to watch him play. You could feel the love and the joy. “They are part of the reason I’m still doing this,” he said with a smile, adding that chasing after them has probably helped keep him in shape. The crowd, initially quiet in support of Draper, responded with warm applause for a true veteran of the game.
Let’s also not forget — this wasn’t just any win. Draper is ranked No. 4 in the world, and Cilic had never before beaten a top-five player on grass. He was 0-for-9 coming into this match against such opponents. That stat alone tells you how monumental this win is for him.
At 36, Cilic isn’t here just to make up the numbers. He’s here to compete, to inspire, and to prove that even in the twilight of a career, magic is still possible. And today, in front of his family and a packed British crowd, he delivered a performance they won’t forget.
As for Draper, this might be a tough pill to swallow, but it’s also a lesson. Like Murray had to find his defining moment years ago, Draper’s will come — just not today. Today belonged to Marin Cilic.
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