For the second consecutive year, Fritz has reached the Quarterfinals of the US Open.
Alexander Zverev vs. Taylor Fritz
Fritz finds himself in a familiar position, facing a well-known opponent. He has reached the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam four times but is eager to advance further. This marks his 10th encounter with Zverev, and their second meeting in a major.
After exiting in the quarters at both the Australian Open and Wimbledon this year, Fritz is ready for a breakthrough.
“I’m tired of just reaching the quarterfinals; I want to go further,” he remarked following his fourth-round victory against Casper Ruud on Sunday.
Zverev will pose a significant challenge, leading their head-to-head series 5-4. However, Fritz triumphed in their most recent clash at Wimbledon after dropping the first two sets.
“Our matches are always competitive,” Fritz noted. “It often comes down to serving well or returning effectively in key moments.”
With Fritz’s recent victory at Wimbledon, one might wonder if Zverev is due for a win this time. Nevertheless, Fritz’s current form is promising. He played exceptionally well to defeat Matteo Berrettini in straight sets before overcoming Ruud.
Zverev, who dealt with a knee issue during their Wimbledon match, will certainly be a tougher opponent. Both players recognize the opportunity presented by the absence of Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz from the tournament. After a five-set loss in the Roland Garros final, Zverev is likely feeling the pressure to claim his first Grand Slam title. He has become adept at enduring the challenges of best-of-five matches.
The key question is whether Fritz, with the crowd’s support, can find a way to defeat Zverev before he settles into his rhythm. **Prediction: Fritz**
Aryna Sabalenka vs. Qinwen Zheng
Could this rematch of the Australian Open final also decide the US Open champion? Sabalenka and Zheng arrived in New York as two of the most in-form players on the WTA circuit; Sabalenka clinched victory in Cincinnati, while Zheng secured Olympic gold, both defeating WTA No. 1 Iga Swiatek along the way.
Sabalenka holds a 2-0 advantage in their matchups, with both encounters not being particularly close. She won 6-1, 6-4 at last year’s US Open and 6-3, 6-2 in the Australian Open final earlier this season. While Zheng can hit as hard as many of her opponents, she struggles against Sabalenka’s ability to dictate play.
Zheng is too talented for this to remain the case indefinitely. Her loss in Melbourne stemmed partly from inexperience and inconsistency, but she has since made strides in both areas. Her Olympic triumph should bolster her confidence.
Still, Sabalenka has a determined demeanor at this tournament. After losing to Coco Gauff in a final she felt she should have won last year, she appears focused on claiming the title this time. **Prediction: Sabalenka**
Grigor Dimitrov vs. Frances Tiafoe
Like Fritz and Zverev, Tiafoe and Dimitrov view this as a golden opportunity. Just two wins separate them from their first Grand Slam final, especially with Djokovic and Alcaraz absent.
Both players are fan favorites, including with Serena Williams, who supported each of them in their fourth-round matches on Sunday but will need to choose a side now.
Dimitrov leads their head-to-head series 3-1 and won their last encounter at Wimbledon in 2023 in straight sets. However, aside from that match, they haven’t faced each other since 2019.
While concrete evidence may be scant regarding their competitive edge, both players promise an exciting match for tennis enthusiasts of all ages. Dimitrov showcases the artistry of a one-handed backhand, while Tiafoe brings athleticism and speed, complemented by finesse.
Tiafoe has thrived on the crowd’s energy thus far, and they will rally to help him reach the semifinals again. However, Dimitrov appears sharp enough to handle the pressure at Ashe Stadium. **Prediction: Dimitrov**