Frances Tiafoe advanced to the semifinals of the US Open after Grigor Dimitrov retired due to injury in their quarterfinal match. Tiafoe was leading 6-3, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 4-1 when Dimitrov stopped playing late in the fourth set. This marked Tiafoe’s second semifinal appearance in three years at Flushing Meadows, making him the first American man to reach this stage since 2005.
“It’s not the way I want to get through,” Tiafoe reflected, “but obviously happy to get through. Another semifinal here. Incredible.”
Dimitrov, who held three set points in the tiebreaker but double-faulted on two of them, struggled with his fitness and was visibly hindered, ultimately seeking treatment before retiring from the match.
In a more thrilling quarterfinal, Taylor Fritz secured his spot in the semifinals with a win over Alexander Zverev, defeating him 7-6 (2), 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (3). This victory marked Fritz’s first appearance in a major semifinal after several attempts in previous tournaments.
The upcoming match will see Tiafoe face Fritz, setting the stage for an all-American semifinal. Tiafoe expressed excitement about playing against his long-time friend, highlighting their shared journey in tennis.
Fritz holds a 6-1 advantage over Tiafoe in their professional matches. Tiafoe praised Fritz’s transformation and work ethic, noting the camaraderie among American players striving for greatness.
This semifinal marks a significant moment for American men’s tennis, as no American man has won a Grand Slam singles title since Andy Roddick at the US Open in 2003. Both players feel that this is a generation on the rise, with the potential to change that narrative.
Dimitrov, seeded No. 9, cited disappointment in his performance and hinted at needing to reassess his training and fitness after the match. He had previously played a lengthy five-set match in the fourth round, which may have contributed to his physical issues against Tiafoe.
The remaining men’s quarterfinals will occur Wednesday, featuring Jannik Sinner versus Daniil Medvedev and Alex De Minaur against Jack Draper.