Taylor Fritz is on the verge of Grand Slam success, says coach Michael Russell

After completing his best season on the ATP Tour in 2024, Taylor Fritz is primed for another breakout campaign as he has his sights set on lifting a Grand Slam trophy this year, according to Fritz's coach, Michael Russell.

The American reached his maiden Grand Slam final at the 2024 US Open, where he fell to a red-hot Jannik Sinner. However, Fritz would bounce back, qualifying for the year-ending ATP Finals before again falling to Sinner in the final. Nonetheless, he would end the year at a career-high ranking of World No.4.

The California native was vital in Team USA's success at the recent United Cup, teaming with WTA counterpart Coco Gauff to lead their country to victory. With the Australian Open only a few days away, fans and pundits are wondering if Fritz can repeat the magic that saw him almost clinch his maiden Grand Slam title in New York last year.

"Going deep in some of the bigger events – finals of US Open, ATP finals - that gives Taylor so much belief in his game that he can actually win in these big events where you’re beating guys, No.1, No.2, No.3 in the world, and all of a sudden you finish the year world No. 4, you are one of the top players in the world,” said Russell. “It’s his best year he’s ever had, and I think he needs to continue to have that confidence, which he has.
"Whether it’s off the return serve, or reacting to a return of his first serve, and also reacting to his opponent who is on defense, when he can quickly recognize that his opponent is on defense and move forward and knock off a volley, I think that’s the biggest part of his game that has improved, and also that needs to continue to improve.

“I think his focus and intensity has improved a lot and his ability to move forward in matches is better, so he’s starting to finish more points at the net, which he needed to do.
“He’s buying into that now because he’s seen some really big moments where he’s able to finish at net and it’s proved immense, as far as his confidence and being able to win against top players in these moments.”