Taylor Fritz, the American tennis star, has emerged as a formidable force at the 2023 US Open, showcasing his determination to claim his first Grand Slam title. After a disappointing upset in 2022, Fritz has learned from his mistakes and is now a more mature and consistent player.
In his impressive victory over Casper Ruud, the 2022 US Open runner-up, Fritz displayed his exceptional serve and relentless groundstrokes. Despite losing the first set, Fritz rallied back with a barrage of aces and service winners, ultimately securing a 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 victory.
Fritz’s win marks his fifth Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance and his third this year. He credits the rise of fellow American players, such as Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe, for creating a competitive environment that has pushed him to improve.
“We have, like, four or five guys that are all incredible players,” Fritz said. “It’s great because I think we all—I think we all push each other and make each other better, to be honest.”
Fritz’s victory over Ruud was a testament to his physical fitness and mental toughness. After a sluggish start, Fritz found his rhythm and dominated the match, breaking down Ruud’s resistance in the third set and cruising through the fourth.
“The first set and a half were tough. He was playing really well, serving a high percentage,” Fritz said. “I felt like I was getting outplayed. I was just able to keep it close until things kind of started going my way.”
Fritz’s success at the US Open is a reflection of his hard work and dedication. He has set his sights on reaching the semifinals and beyond, eager to prove that he is a legitimate contender for the title.
“I think in the past I’ve been very, very excited, very happy to make quarterfinals at Slams. . . I think I’m at the point now where I’m still happy to make quarterfinals—but I wouldn’t be happy with it ending there,” Fritz said.
“I definitely am at the point where I really want more than that.”
