New Delhi: USA’s Taylor Fritz defeated Alexander Zverev in a thrilling three-setter in the semi-final of the ATP finals to reach the final of the tournament. Fritz defeated Zverev 6-3 3-6 7-6 (7-3) in the semi-final to record his fourth win on the trot against the German, all of which have come this year alone. The American will now take on the winner of the second semi-final between world number one Jannik Sinner and Norway’s Casper Ruud in the summit clash.
Fritz achieved a rare feat with his win over Zverev in the semi-final as he became the first American to reach the final of the ATP finals in 18 years. James Blake was the last American to reach the final of the tournament in 2006 when he lost the title to the legendary Roger Federer. Fritz on Saturday became the first since Blake to make it to the final of the season-ending tournament with an exciting victory over Zverev.
Zverev, who enjoyed a strong run in 2024, stormed into the semi-finals without having his serve broken in his first three matches. However, his stellar run was ended by Fritz on Saturday. The American was on top of his game right from the word go as he produced some amazing forehand shots to race to a 4-2 lead in the first game before eventually clinching it 6-3.
Zverev fought back in the second game and secured the break with a powerful forehand, taking the game 6-3. However, Fritz managed to get the better of the German in the deciding set by winning 7-6 (7-3) to become the first American to reach the ATP Finals summit clash since 2006. Fritz admitted he did struggle against the German in the last two sets after playing what he labelled a ‘perfect’ 1st set.
“It was tough in the second and third sets. I felt like I almost played the perfect first set, things felt great, then things can change so quickly when you’re playing someone like (Zverev),” said Fritz after his victory in the semi-final.
Taylor Fritz eyes history in final
Fritz will have the golden opportunity to become the first American since the legendary Pete Sampras to win the ATP Finals title. Sampras was the last American to win the tournament in 1999 and Fritz has a chance to bring an end to the 25-year-long wait in the final on Sunday.
Fritz will also be eyeing his revenge against world no.1 Sinner if the Italian advances to the final. Sinner defeated Fritz in his maiden Grand Slam final appearance at the US Open 2024 earlier this year. Fritz will be hoping to avenge the defeat if the duo meet in the summit clash on Sunday.
Taylor Fritz defeated Germany’s Alexander Zverev to reach the summit clash of the ATP Finals tournament. It was Fritz’s 4th consecutive win against the German this year. Tennis Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
