Taylor Fritz has become the first American man in 15 years to reach a Grand Slam singles final, defeating fellow compatriot Frances Tiafoe in a thrilling five-set match at the US Open. Fritz, 26, fought back from a set down to secure a dramatic 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium, marking his first appearance in a Grand Slam final.
Andy Roddick was the last American man to both win a Grand Slam, with his 2003 US Open title, and to reach a Grand Slam final at Wimbledon in 2009. Fritz will now face world number one Jannik Sinner in Sunday’s final, with hopes of ending the American men’s 21-year Grand Slam title drought.
Reflecting on his victory, Fritz admitted it was a challenging match. “He overwhelmed me at the start, and I was freaking out a little,” he said. “I did all I could to stay in it. If I hadn’t done that, I’d regret it forever.”
For Tiafoe, this marks a second consecutive semi-final defeat at the US Open, following last year’s loss to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz. Despite an early lead, Tiafoe couldn’t maintain momentum in the final set, with Fritz capitalizing on crucial errors.
As the excitement builds for the final, there is also the possibility of an American champion on the women’s side, as Jessica Pegula prepares to face Aryna Sabalenka in Saturday’s final.
Fritz’s triumph not only symbolizes a resurgence in American tennis but also sets the stage for a historic showdown at Flushing Meadows. Fans will be eagerly anticipating Sunday’s final as Fritz aims to capture his first Grand Slam title.