Sock advances to final at ATP Oracle Challenger, in good form prior to Indian Wells

Life for Jack Sock must have been disheartening prior to the 2020 ATP season, as the American was yet to win a singles match in over a year.

Fortunately, the streak came to an end at the Delray Beach Open, where Sock finally won his first match in 15 months. The 27-year old upset the defending champion in the process, making the victory even sweeter.

However, Sock found himself on the losing end once again, falling to compatriot Steve Johnson in the next round. Coincidentally, Sock will face Johnson again when the two clash in the final at the ATP Oracle Challenger Series, which acts as a prelude to the BNP Paribas Open. This year's event featured some noteworthy names, including 2019 Next Gen Finals champion Jannik Sinner, Lucas Pouille and Francis Tiafoe.

After upsetting top seed and Auckland champion Ugo Humbert in the quarterfinals, Sock faced countryman Brandon Nakashima. After dropping the first set in a tiebreak, Sock rallied to defeat Nakashima 6-7(5) 6-3 6-4 in two hours and 12 minutes.

At one point, the former World No.8 could possibly have been the most talented player at this event. However, a string of injuries, setbacks and self-doubt have greatly affected the World No.768 since winning his sole Masters title in Paris in 2017.

In fact, the American has only one won match in straight sets this tournament, with the rest going the distance. Nonetheless, Sock has displayed the motivation and grit that saw him previously attain a Top 10 ranking.

A victory at this Challenger event could serve to boost his confidence, prompting him to put on a respectable performance at the upcoming BNP Paribas Open. Sock did in fact reach the semifinals in 2017, and he'll definitely have the support of the American crowd when he takes to the court.

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