Tennis star Taylor Fritz produced one of the best seasons in his career during the 2024 ATP season, but still has to deal with fans and the media believing he's not "enough" to fly the flag for American men's tennis.
The 27-year old qualified for the season-ending ATP Finals in Turin, and advanced to the knockout stage following his victory over Alex De Minaur. Fritz will rise to a career-high ranking of World No.5 after the elite event, and has an opportunity to play for the title should he progress past the semifinals.
Despite producing stellar results this season that included reaching his maiden Grand Slam final at the 2024 US Open, several members of the American media do not believe Fritz has the game to bring home a Major title.
"I don't think anyone's going to be considered enough until, I guess, someone wins a slam," said Fritz. "I think I've probably shown through the years that, I mean, I've had the best results. Yeah, if people don't think I'm good enough to win a slam, then yeah, you're going to look to younger people that they think have more potential. I mean, that is what it is.
"I've shown why I'm the top American for the last couple years, kind of every year with my results. I kind of just let my results do the talking. If that's not enough for people, then it is what it is. Some people prefer people with more just flashier games."
Fritz has won 51 of 73 matches this season, which saw him capture titles in Delray Beach and Eastbourne. Additionally, he finished runner-up at Flushing Meadows, and reached the semifinals in Madrid and Shanghai.