Taylor Fritz
PROS: “Fritz is increasingly finding a way to win on his average days, a trademark of champions,” says former world No. 4 Gene Mayer. One reason is his straightforward power game has gradually become more consistent, especially his high-risk, high-reward groundstrokes. The 24-year-old American’s biggest weapon is his explosive serve, which peaked at 147 mph.
Fritz, ranked No. 23, boasts two more critical assets, according to Tennis Channel analyst Jan-michael Gambill. “I love his mental approach to every match,” Gambill said. “If you love the game that much, it’s easier to compete. And Taylor has incredible hand-eye coordination, which enables him to get out of some tricky situations.”
The big tactical variable is how early Fritz hits the balls. “His two top-10 victories against No. 4 Alexander Zverev, and No. 7 Matteo Berrettini were built on stepping forward to attack the ball much more than his higher-ranked opponents,” wrote Craig O’shannessey on Atp.com. “Fritz made contact with the ball 45 per cent of the time inside the baseline against Berrettini and 31 per cent against Zverev. Fritz was well rewarded for taking the ball early and dictating play.”
CONS: His movement remains a liability, especially on defense where other New Gen big men Medvedev, Zverev, and Tsitsipas clearly outperform him. His net game must improve for him to crack the top 10. “One of the final pieces is his transition game,” says Gambill. “It’s improved, but his volleys have to get better, especially on low balls.”