Taylor Fritz dominated Jenson Brooksby in his return to professional tennis. The 2024 US Open finalist showcased his credentials at the Australian Open with an impressive 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 triumph, advancing to the second round in under two hours.
The American No. 1 asserted his dominance from the outset, capitalising on his compatriot's lack of match fitness. Brooksby committed 24 unforced errors and won only 20% of return points, struggling to find his rhythm throughout the match.
The former World No. 33 was making his return after two years since his last official match, when he lost in the second round of the Australian Open to Tommy Paul in straight sets. Brooksby served an 18-month suspension (later reduced to 13 months) for missing three anti-doping tests within a 12-month period.
The first set remained balanced until 2-2, when Fritz seized control. He won 16 of the next 20 points, converting both break points and closing the set 6-2.
The second set saw Fritz tighten his grip on the match. He won 86% of his service points (100% on his first serve) and an impressive 67% on return points, bageling Brooksby 6-0 to take a two-set lead in under an hour.
Brooksby showed improvement in the third set, and Fritz appeared slightly relaxed on return. Nevertheless, Fritz continued to dictate play from the baseline, avoiding long rallies despite showing some vulnerability on his second serve. A decisive break in the sixth game secured Fritz's commanding 6-2, 6-0, 6-3 victory in just one hour and 45 minutes.
Back on court! Jenson Brooksby (24) makes his return to tennis following a 13-month doping ban.
— edgeAI (@edgeAIapp) January 14, 2025
His last match was at the 2023 Australian Open, where he reached the Round of 32.
Brooksby recently revealed that he has been living with autism.
Faces 4th seed Taylor Fritz today. pic.twitter.com/2cFzlHaXQB