Jimmy Connors praised the success of Americans Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe at the recent US Open. Both players surprised by reaching the semifinals, where Fritz claimed an epic victory to advance to his first Grand Slam final, eventually losing to World No. 1 Jannik Sinner.
It was the first time since 2006 that a local male player reached the final, when Roger Federer defeated Andy Roddick. The days of American dominance at the tournament, with seven titles between 1993 and 2003, seem distant, though Tiafoe and Fritz thrilled the Flushing Meadows crowd and came close to ending the drought for American players.
Connors excited about American tennis revival
Former World No. 1 Connors, who won the US Open five times between 1974 and 1983, tying with Pete Sampras and Roger Federer as the most decorated champions, praised the American duo’s performance on his podcast, Advantage with Connors. The 8-time Grand Slam champion believes their success can inspire other American players.
Read also
"It's been a while, right?” Connors commented on the semifinal match between two Americans in a major. “We haven't had a men's champion since Roddick in 2003," he added.
"For two Americans to be in the semis was pretty exciting, and it goes to show that when you stay in there, keep grinding, training, working, sacrificing, and doing what's best to improve each day, good things happen," Connors said.
"They might be playing their best tennis. Alcaraz might have been in there. He lost. That's not their fault. If he doesn't make it, that's not their problem, but they were prepared and played the kind of tennis necessary to get to that point, which is great," added the 5-time US Open champion.
"Listen, the American men need to keep moving forward and prove they deserve those semifinal and final berths every time they step onto the court. Tennis is a 365-days-a-year job, and you can't live off one result. That result, as great as it was, is over now," he concluded.
Fritz and Tiafoe will lead Team World at the Laver Cup starting September 20, joining compatriot Ben Shelton, South Americans Alejandro Tabilo and Francisco Cerundolo, and Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
