Mirra Andreeva and Jack Draper embrace a new tradition in Indian Wells.

Mirra Andreeva and Jack Draper, two of the most promising names in world tennis, are continuing a tradition that is gaining traction at the Indian Wells tournament. During the prestigious Champions Luncheon, held annually, both players shared their favorite culinary delights with dignitaries and the press, in a celebration that began last year.

In the 2025 edition of the Champions Luncheon, it was Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz, the 2024 champions, who initiated this new tradition. Now, as the champions from the previous year, Andreeva and Draper have taken the lead and kept the flame alive. Jack Draper, currently ranked 14th in the ATP rankings, opted for a dish that exudes sophistication: steak au poivre with filet mignon, accompanied by fried truffles and a green pepper sauce. A choice that reflects not only his refined palate but also his ambition to stand out both on and off the court.

Mirra Andreeva’s choice, in turn, brought a homely and nostalgic touch to the table. The young Russian, who is only 18 years old, is already standing out as the 8th seed in the competition, and she highlighted her love for ‘Syrniki,’ farmer’s cheese pancakes typical of Eastern Europe. Andreeva enthusiastically shared the personal connection she has with this dish: “It’s a type of dessert, but it can also be eaten as a main dish, for example, at breakfast. It’s a traditional dish that my mother, Raisa, often cooks,” the tennis player told Desert Sun, revealing a more personal and intimate side of her life away from the courts.

Both athletes are now waiting to discover who their opponents will be in the first round of the BNP Paribas Open 2026, which will take place in Indian Wells. Mirra Andreeva, who has already won a title this season at the Adelaide International, received a bye in the first round and will face the winner of the matchup between American Peyton Stearns and Argentine Solana Sierra. Meanwhile, Jack Draper, also with a bye, will begin the defense of his title in the second round against one of two players: Fabian Marozsan or Roberto Bautista Agut.

Andreeva’s journey this season has been consistent, while Draper is finding his way back after a recent defeat at the Dubai Tennis Championship to Arthur Rinderknech. Anticipation is growing to see how both players will perform in the coming weeks and whether the tradition they have started can bring even more success to their promising careers.