Taylor Fritz’s dominant performance against Matteo Berrettini in the second round of the US Open showcased his remarkable growth and determination. Fritz’s aggressive baseline play and impeccable serve control left Berrettini reeling, resulting in a resounding 6-3, 7-6 (1), 6-1 victory.
Fritz’s focus and intensity were evident from the outset. He broke Berrettini’s serve early with a disguised forehand drop shot and a precise backhand pass. His serve was a weapon, winning 90% of his first-serve points and an astonishing 87% of his second-serve points. Berrettini, hampered by leg tape, struggled to find his rhythm and managed only eight points on Fritz’s serve.
This commanding victory marks a significant milestone in Fritz’s Grand Slam career. A year ago, he began to elevate his level at the majors, reaching the quarterfinals at the US Open. He has since replicated that success at the Australian Open and Wimbledon this year.
Fritz’s triumph is part of a strong showing by American men at the US Open. Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, and Brandon Nakashima have also advanced to the third round. This resurgence has sparked questions about the potential end of the Grand Slam drought for U.S. men, which dates back to 2003.
Fritz acknowledges the pressure but remains focused on the present. “We all want to be the one to end it,” he said. “But we don’t really talk about that. We’ve talked about the fact that we’ve got five guys in the Top 20. We’ve talked about how we just have a lot of good players.”
The number of American men in the Top 20 and their success at the US Open is a testament to the depth and talent within the U.S. tennis system. While the Grand Slam drought remains a challenge, Fritz and his fellow countrymen are determined to make their mark on the sport’s biggest stage.
