What a tournament this has been for the 24-year-old Jenson Brooksby! Ranking outside the Top 500, coming in as a qualifier and battling through 4 three-setters against some of the big names, he has made it to the final of the US Men’s Clay Court Championships in Houston. With his recent win in the SF, Brooksby has become the sixth tour-level finalist ranked outside the world’s Top 500 since 1990. Not only that, he is now also the second qualifier to reach the final of the tournament since it moved to Houston in 2001.

Sharing his thoughts on this incredible feat, Brooksby said, “I think regardless of what happens tomorrow, it’s a huge positive for me this week. Huge. I’m proud of the work I’ve put in.” He also talked about his excitement about getting the chance to face someone who has now reached the final in Houston for a third consecutive year! Can the youngster stun Frances Tiafoe in this epic finale?

Frances Tiafoe vs Jenson Brooksby: Preview

Frances Tiafoe had a horrid start to his season this year, but in Houston, he has been literally unstoppable so far. He hasn’t lost a set yet in this tournament, and will be entering this contest following his impressive 6-4.7-6(3) win over Brandon Nakashima in the SF. With that win against Nakashima, Big Foe has now become the fourth player to make three straight championship matches in Houston. “I thought I played pretty well tonight… But I thought I came out with a great energy, and it’s again just having fun out here and playing really well my first tournament on clay,“ he said after the match.

Jenson Brooksby, on the flipside, had also struggled to deliver before this tournament. However, his resilience and grit pushed him through to the final in Houston. He took down the number 13, Tommy Paul, in his previous match by 7-6(5),3-6,7-6(6). Now, it’ll be interesting to see if he forces yet another upset against the former world number 10 Tiafoe.

Tiafoe vs Brooksby: Head-to-Head

Frances Tiafoe has crossed paths with Jenson twice in his career so far, and guess what? Brooksby currently leads the H2H record against Tiafoe by a 2-0 margin.

• 2022 Atlanta SF: Brooksby 6-1,6-4.
• 2021 Washington R32: Brooksby 7-6(4),7-5.

Prediction: Tiafoe will win this epic all-American clash in three sets

Jenson Brooksby may have to play yet another three-setter in Houston! However, this time the fortune may not favor him against someone like Frances Tiafoe, who has a stunning record at this venue. Despite Brooksby having an edge in the H2H record, Tiafoe seems to have an upper hand going into this contest. 

If we look at the numbers, Tiafoe (17) currently has a win-loss record of 7-7 in 2025, whereas it’s 6-4 for Brooksby (507). Tiafoe has the experience and the weapons in his arsenal to win this mega duel, but if Brooksby manages to start this match on the front foot, then who knows? An upset could well be on the cards! This match could be extremely tight.

As far as their playing styles are concerned, Brooksby is known for his unorthodox, counter-punching, defensive baseline style, characterized by his movement, ball redirection, and ability to grind out long rallies. He doesn’t really rely on power or brute force too much. He is also known for his tactical versatility, including his ability to hit slices and drop shots from both sides.

On the other side, Frances Tiafoe has an unorthodox style of play which features a powerful forehand, a strong serve, and a baseline-oriented, offensive game. He is also known for his incredible athleticism, and let me tell you, no one brings more energy on the court than ‘Big Foe’. Tiafoe has already hit 118 aces this season. Can his big serves earn him the big win in Houston? Probably yes, but only with a fine margin! The prediction is for Frances Tiafoe to win this match in a tight three-setter.