Taylor Fritz secured his spot in the US Open final, setting up a thrilling showdown against Italy’s rising star Jannik Sinner. In an intense all-American semifinal clash, Fritz overcame Frances Tiafoe, prevailing 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a grueling five-set battle. As Fritz looks ahead to the final, Tiafoe finds himself embroiled in controversy after boldly claiming something that has drawn criticism from fans.

Despite holding the lead, Frances Tiafoe faltered in the decisive set, which lasted just 27 minutes. His game unraveled as he suffered three breaks of serve and managed to win only nine points. Struggling with consistency and unable to counter Taylor Fritz’s aggressive play, Tiafoe’s challenge faded quickly, allowing Fritz to dominate and secure his place in the US Open final.

However, when Frances Tiafoe discussed his defeat and the lost opportunity to get to the US Open final during the press conference after the match, he stated, “I mean, I was the better player for sure tonight, I think, in the fourth set. Had these in-and-out cramps out of nowhere; it felt like my body just shut down on me. Probably had a lot to do with nerves because I wasn’t tired at all.”

But that statement was not received well by the fans as they were left shocked by the fact that despite being beaten by Fritz fair and square, Tiafoe still claimed that he was the better player on the night.

Tennis fans not happy with Frances Tiafoe’s ‘better player’ comment

As soon as the video of the press conference was released, a lot of fans came forward to share their thoughts. A fan pointed out a problem and wrote, “Instead of drinking bottled water, maybe Taifoe should try an electrolyte or some food during a 5-setter?”

A similar incident was observed during the changeover between the fourth and fifth sets. Frances Tiafoe made a concerted effort to maintain his energy and hydration. “I tried a bunch of different things,” Tiafoe recounted. Apart from consuming pickle juice, he also focused on eating and doing everything he could to sustain his performance. Another fan remarked, “He won’t get a better chance than that to reach a slam final,” reflecting on the significance of the recent US Open semifinal for Frances Tiafoe.

While many fans viewed this as a missed opportunity, it’s important to remember that Tiafoe has proven himself as a formidable force on the Grand Slam stage previously too. His 2022 US Open performance, where he reached the semifinals, was a defining moment in his career, showcasing both his immense talent and growing maturity.

A fan bluntly commented, “Can’t be the ‘better player for sure tonight’ if you end up losing. Come on now,” adding to the growing criticism of Tiafoe’s post-match remarks. It’s clear that Tiafoe wasn’t pleased with his performance either. He was visibly disappointed and upset. His frustration was palpable when he candidly admitted, “It’s tough. It’s really, really tough. Really, really tough to swallow.”

One fan pointed out, “I thought I was the better player for sure tonight. The audacity of that statement after losing eight of the last nine games to lose.” While such remarks may seem bold coming from a player, it’s also important to recognize that certain statements might be made in the heat of the moment or in utter disappointment.

2024 hasn’t been smooth sailing for Tiafoe. He managed to find his rhythm later in the season, reaching the final of the Cincinnati Open, where he put up a strong fight but ultimately lost to Jannik Sinner. In a calculated move before that, Tiafoe had opted to skip the Olympics, focusing instead on preparing for the US Open in hopes of making a deep run at his home Grand Slam.

Tiafoe tried his hardest, but his trip ended in the semifinals without the significant breakthrough he had been aiming for. One fan summed up the sentiment, writing, “You weren’t the better player. You had great moments, but give credit to Taylor.” This match will live on in the archives of tennis history. Two American players, hoping to end the country’s men’s singles title drought that has persisted since Andy Roddick’s victory two decades ago, engaged in a fiercely fought match for a spot in the US Open final.

As the tennis community continues to scrutinize Frances Tiafoe’s remarks, the focus shifts to the excitement surrounding the US Open finals. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the final showdown unfolds, with the spotlight now firmly on the two players vying for the title, one of whom, Taylor Fritz, is a local star.