MATCH REPORT | 2024 US Open: Taylor Fritz's solid performance sees him past Berrettini in straight sets

Taylor Fritz pulled off a tough match against Matteo Berrettini, winning 6-3, 7-6(1), 6-1, and advanced to the third round of the US Open. The American No. 1 did not disappoint the home crowd and overcame a resilient Berrettini, who physically faded in the latter part of the match.

Fritz (No. 12) had an almost flawless first set on serve, conceding just two points in his service games, and won four out of five games to love. A single break in the 4th game was enough for the American to take the lead over Berrettini (No. 44).

On the other hand, the Italian only managed 38% of first serves, and although he won 100% of those, he struggled with his second serve, winning just 40%, which cost him against an aggressive player like Fritz, who punished him particularly with his forehand in a set mostly comprised of short points.

The second set remained evenly contested for long stretches, with Berrettini improving his first serve percentage to 50%, though still far from Fritz's 68%. Both players held serve without facing break points, and it was decided in a tie-break where Fritz took the lead early, secured three consecutive mini-breaks, and went up 6-0 before closing it out 7-6(1), demonstrating his effectiveness in crucial moments.

Unfortunately for the Italian, he was physically diminished in the final part of the match, particularly in long rallies. Berrettini never managed to achieve a high first serve percentage, and Fritz took advantage by securing two consecutive breaks to go up 5-0 in just over 20 minutes.

With the match practically decided in favor of the American, Berrettini showed spirit to win one last service game before Fritz closed out the victory on his serve 6-3, 7-6(1), 6-1 in just two hours and 10 minutes. Fritz had an incredible performance, winning 88% of the points on his serve, in a display that allows him to dream of a deep run in the tournament.

For now, he reaches the third round and will face the surprising Argentine Francisco Comesaña, who recently eliminated the 17th seed Ugo Humbert.