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Taylor Fritz got the better of Frances Tiafoe in an All-American Semifinals Clash at US Open

Taylor Fritz got the better of his long-time friend Frances Tiafoe in an All-American Semifinal clash at the Flushing Meadows in the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

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Shubhrajit Goswami
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Taylor Fritz emerged victorious in a gruelling semi-final match over five sets, defeating Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 6-1. Fritz will be the first American man in 18 years to compete for a grand slam singles title on home soil when he faces off against world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the final on Sunday.

The match was highly contested, with both players vying for victory, and the tension was palpable as the US audience grappled with whom to support. Ultimately, Fritz showcased his composure, resilience, and powerful forehand, securing his win over Tiafoe.

Fritz, now faces the daunting task of reviving American men's tennis to its former glory, and his determination was evident in Friday's match, even if it meant competing against his close friend.

Also Read: US Open semi-finals turned into a stage of battle for 2 billionaires

The Gruelling Battle between 2 American's for a place in US Open Finals 

Fritz seemed to be in rhythm right from the start while Tiafoe appeared a bit anxious with his shots. The strategy of playing short rallies proved to be fruitful for Fritz as he lept into a 3-0 lead in the first set. Tiafoe broke Fritz in the 4th game of the opening set, marking his comeback in the encounter. Tiafoe went on to win the next 4 games and notch up a 5-3 lead. Tiafoe staged a remarkable comeback to win the first set 6-3.

In the second set, both players maintained their serve until Fritz had an opportunity to break for the lead. Despite a fierce rally with net cords exchanged, Tiafoe made an error with a net volley reply. At 5-5, Fritz applied pressure on Tiafoe's serve with drop shots, but Tiafoe persevered and secured an early break, ultimately taking two sets to one lead.

In an intense exchange during the match, both players demonstrated incredible fitness, shot diversity, and a strong determination not to concede. However, it appeared that Tiafoe may have expended too much energy during a 31-shot rally. Following this, Fritz capitalized on Tiafoe's double faults to secure a set point.

In the fifth set, Fritz overwhelmed Tiafoe as the latter showed signs of fatigue. Fritz broke him twice and landed a mammoth 4-0 lead. Tiafoe eventually lost the set 6-1.

“It’s a dream come true. I’m in the final. So I’m going to come out and give everything I can possibly give,” an emotional Fritz said in the post-match interview.

Also Read: Jannik Sinner praises Jack Draper after their semi-finals clash in the US Open

Taylor Fritz US Open Frances Tiafoe
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