“I’m pretty upset with how I played,” said Taylor Fritz, who couldn’t cruise past Jannik Sinner in the 2024 US Open final. Fritz was no stranger to Sinner’s gameplay, having played him twice before (defeating once at 2021 Indian Wells). Moreover, he was ready to be the first American man to win a grand slam in the last 21 years. But his straight-set loss against World No. 1 compelled him to say, “I feel like I almost let a lot of people down.” However, as the dust has settled now, Fritz is trying to rediscover his footing on-court and introspect on a “disappointing” result in New York.
Taylor Fritz’s current destination is Berlin. There, after a first-round 6-4, 7-5 victory against Alexander Zverev, he is all set to face Carlos Alcaraz next in the Laver Cup. However, during a post-match conference, the 26-year-old had to face the inevitable question, “Which feeling does prevails right now, happiness that you made it to the final (in the US Open) or still disappointment?”
In his response, Fritz acknowledged the progress he’s made and the opportunities that lie ahead and said, “I’m happy I made it to the final. Take a step back and look at for my year puts me in a great spot for the race, puts me in a great spot for the rankings.”
Fritz, who entered New York as the 12th seed, has now re-entered the top 10 rankings (No. 7) after the tournament. Gradually moving towards his best ranking (No. 5), which he achieved in February after he won the Delray Beach Open last year. “I can’t sit on it for too long. It’s important that I build off of it. That is why I am really happy that I came out today, and played a great match” said the eight-singles title winner, recognizing the importance of capitalizing on his US Open final-round run.
However, a tinge of regret still lingers in his head, as he further stated, “I am always going to look back at it” and “be disappointed” and also not feel “disappointed.” “Because, necessarily, I lost, just disappointed, I think I could’ve played a lot better at times.”
The 2024 Australian Open quarterfinalist had a strong start to the season and even played his first Tour-level clay-court final in Munich, ultimately getting back to the American No. 1 position. Moreover, his semifinal round entry in the Paris Olympics and winning a bronze medal also propelled him to more success. Although he improved his 2024 US Open performance as compared to last year (where he entered the QF), Fritz looks forward to refining his skills even more.