"He’s figured out how to maximize his great ability": Patrick McEnroe recalls knowing Frances Tiafoe would be 'special' from young age

American tennis star Frances Tiafoe has been playing some of the best tennis of his career over the past year, and former US Davis Cup captain Patrick McEnroe believes Tiafoe always had the potential to be great.

Tiafoe reached his maiden Grand Slam semifinal at the US Open last year, has climbed the rankings to a career-high of World No.11 and is coming off a title win in Houston. McEnroe had high praise for the Maryland native, stating Tiafoe was always a threat, even as a junior.

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"I remember Frances when he was a kid. I remember going out to the Easter Bowl, which is a big junior tournament. Frances was maybe 15 at the time. He was already one of the top kids in the 18 and under. So, we knew he was special,” McEnroe said on 'Courtside: The US Open Podcast.'

"There’s 30 people there. It’s not like you go to the pro tournament. And Frances, I go to watch, he is playing his match. He is looking around, he is smiling. He sees me. He’s like, ‘P Mac! What’s up!’ in the middle of the match. This kid loves it. He brings that sort of enthusiasm to the sport.”

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McEnroe credited Tiafoe's work ethic and dedication for his success, and believes the 25-year old could go even further in his career.

"What I’m really happy about and super proud of him and his team especially helping him in the last couple of years, is that he has figured it out," McEnroe added. “He’s figured out how to maximize his great ability. His work ethic’s gotten better. His commitments – everything’s just gotten better, progressively. His diet, his habits. It’s great to see."